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Poland Scrambles Jets as Russia Unleashes 'Largest' Drone & Missile Barrage on Ukraine
In a dramatic response to Russia's unprecedented drone and missile attack on Ukraine, NATO, led by Poland, scrambled fighter jets and put its forces on high alert. The massive assault, targeting western Ukraine and nearing NATO borders, highlights escalating tensions, even as peace efforts continue to be rebuffed by Moscow.
The skies over Eastern Europe crackled with tension early on Thursday, 10th July 2025, as NATO(North Atlantic Treaty Organisation) scrambled fighter jets, primarily from Poland, in direct response to Russia's most extensive drone and missile assault on Ukraine to date. This wasn't just another attack; it was a staggering barrage involving 728 drones, including over 300 Iranian-designed Shahed drones, and 13 sophisticated missiles like Kinzhals and Iskanders.
The Russian Defence Ministry confirmed its forces had targeted Ukrainian air bases, stating unequivocally that "all the designated targets have been hit." Meanwhile, Ukraine itself launched drones into Russia overnight, tragically resulting in three fatalities in the Kursk border region, including a five-year-old boy, as confirmed by the local governor.
Poland's Immediate Response
As the scale of the Russian attack became clear, Poland, a frontline NATO member, took decisive action. The Polish Armed Forces Operational Command announced on X (formerly Twitter) that its fighter jets, including F-16s, had been scrambled. The nation's armed forces were simultaneously placed on their highest level of alert, with ground-based air defences and radar systems set to maximum readiness. This swift response was a crucial precautionary measure, driven by the sheer proximity of the strikes to NATO's borders and the inherent threat of airspace incursions.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the latest offensive as a 'new massive Russian attack on our cities,' underscoring the relentless nature of the conflict. He lamented that this "telling attack" comes at a time when numerous efforts for peace and a ceasefire have been made, only to be "rebuffed" by Russia.
Border Proximity Raises Alarm
The Russian assault heavily focused on western Ukraine, particularly regions like Lviv and Volyn, which share a direct border with NATO member Poland. Strikes on cities such as Lutsk and Rivne, dangerously close to Polish territory, naturally heightened concerns within the alliance about potential breaches of NATO airspace. While no Russian drones or missiles ultimately entered Polish airspace during this incident, the rapid response showcased NATO's commitment to protecting its sovereign territory and responding to potential threats along its eastern flank.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing volatility in the region and the critical role NATO plays in maintaining security and stability in the face of persistent aggression.
#NATO #UkraineWar #PolandAirspace
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