Poland scrambles fighter jets as Russia unleashed one of its largest aerial bombardments on Ukraine overnight, marking a severe escalation in the ongoing war. On Sunday morning, Poland’s Armed Forces Operational Command confirmed that fighter jets were deployed in response to intense Russian aviation activity near the Polish-Ukrainian border.
Massive Russian Air Assault on Ukraine
Ukraine reported that 367 aerial threats were launched by Russia, including:
- 9 Iskander ballistic missiles
- 56 cruise missiles
- 4 guided air missiles
- 298 attack drones
Ukrainian forces claimed they successfully intercepted 45 cruise missiles and 266 drones.
According to Ukraine’s Interior Ministry, the strikes killed at least 12 people, including three children, and injured over 60 civilians. Over 80 buildings were damaged, and 27 fires were recorded due to the onslaught.
Widespread Strikes Despite Prisoner Exchange
The attack occurred just after the largest prisoner exchange of the war, in which 1,000 troops from both Ukraine and Russia were returned home. Despite this humanitarian effort, Russia launched its fourth consecutive night of large-scale strikes, hitting 22 locations across Ukraine.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the attacks, stating, “These were deliberate strikes on ordinary cities,” including Kyiv, where university dormitories and civilian infrastructure were targeted.
Russia Justifies Attacks, Ukraine Demands Action
Russia’s Defense Ministry claimed the attacks targeted Ukraine’s military-industrial complex, alleging precision strikes on missile and drone facilities. However, Ukraine and its allies argue these are indiscriminate attacks on civilians.
Zelenskyy responded by urging the international community to act:
“Each terrorist Russian strike is a reason for new sanctions. Silence from America and others only encourages Putin.”
Tensions Rise Across NATO’s Eastern Flank
Poland’s decision to scramble fighter jets underscores growing concern among NATO members about the spillover effects of the conflict. Although Poland has not reported any airspace violations, the proximity and scale of Russian operations near its border have raised regional alarm.
Meanwhile, U.S.-brokered peace talks under President Trump have stalled. Ukraine insists on a 30-day ceasefire before negotiations can proceed but has ruled out ceding territory. Russia continues to demand the annexation of Ukrainian regions and other conditions Kyiv considers unacceptable.