CBS News | September 15, 2026 — Recently returned from Ukraine, CBS News contributor Elliot Ackerman discusses renewed Russian and Ukrainian attacks on energy infrastructure, conditions at the front, the approaching winter, and growing concern over drone incursions near NATO territory.

Energy Infrastructure and Winter

Ackerman explains why energy infrastructure becomes particularly important as winter approaches. Beyond putting pressure on civilian populations, he places the latest strikes within a broader period of intensified military and diplomatic pressure surrounding the war.

From the Front Lines in Ukraine

Ackerman recently traveled to the Ukrainian front with With Honor Action and a congressional delegation. He describes Ukrainian forces as increasingly confident about battlefield conditions while Russia continues to sustain significant casualties.

Drone Incursions and NATO

The conversation also examines recent drone incidents involving Lithuania and Poland. Ackerman discusses the incursions in the context of Russian escalation, potential additional sanctions, and the security concerns facing NATO’s eastern flank.