NATO has deployed fighter jets in Poland in response to a wave of Russian drone attacks on Ukraine. The escalation in aggression by Vladimir Putin saw a sustained air assault on Ukraine involving Shahed drones and decoys. Ukrainian Air Force reported successfully intercepting or disrupting 111 out of 139 drones by early morning.
Videos captured a Russian drone crashing into a building in Lutsk, Volyn region, causing an explosion. Reports suggest the target may have been a Ukrainian SBU security service outpost, but confirmation is pending.
Poland’s Armed Forces Operational Command stated that due to the extensive Russian drone assault on Ukraine, military aviation had been activated in their airspace. The commander mobilized necessary forces and resources, including fighter jets, helicopters, and heightened air defense and radar surveillance.
These defensive operations are proactive measures to safeguard airspace, especially near vulnerable areas. The Polish Armed Forces continue to monitor the situation closely, maintaining preparedness to respond promptly.
The attacks struck multiple locations in western Ukraine, resulting in casualties in Lutsk and ongoing aerial assaults. In the Rivne region, a strike on a residential building claimed two lives and injured four individuals. Earlier, a nine-month-old infant sustained severe leg injuries in Kryvi Rih.
Despite Putin’s assertion that the conflict is nearing an end, recent attacks contradict this claim. The Kremlin reiterated Putin’s stance that Volodymyr Zelensky must order the surrender of a significant portion of Donetsk region held by Ukraine for negotiations to proceed. However, Ukraine rejects this demand.
The Kremlin spokesperson suggested that after Ukrainian troop withdrawal, a ceasefire could be established for peaceful negotiations, a proposal Ukraine has rejected.