NATO Scrambles Jets Amid Large-Scale Russian Missile Strikes on Ukraine

On the night of August 18-19, 2025, Russia launched a renewed wave of missile and drone strikes on Ukrainian territories, including the cities of Kremenchuk and Poltava, deploying strategic bombers and a large number of drones and missiles. In response, NATO scrambled fighter jets from member nations including Poland and Sweden to secure Polish airspace and protect citizens near the conflict zone, activating their highest level of air defense readiness. Despite Russian President Vladimir Putin expressing support for peace talks during a 40-minute phone call with U.S. President Donald Trump, the intensity and scale of the attacks raised widespread skepticism about Putin's commitment to negotiations. The attacks occurred shortly after a White House meeting involving Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and European leaders focused on ending the war, with hopes for a peace meeting by the end of August. NATO's air defense response highlighted the interconnectedness and readiness of allied forces, with Polish F-16s and Swedish Gripen jets playing complementary roles in regional security. The situation remains fluid with ongoing diplomatic efforts amid continued hostilities.