Poland Deploys Fighter Jets Amid Russian Airstrikes on Ukraine

Poland, a NATO member, has scrambled aircraft and deployed ground-based air defenses to secure its airspace following a large-scale Russian missile and drone attack on Ukraine, particularly near the Lviv region close to the Polish border. These defensive measures are preventive and aimed at protecting citizens in areas adjacent to the conflict zone, with Polish and allied forces on high alert and fully prepared for immediate response. The attacks included over a hundred Shahed drones, Kalibr cruise missiles from the Black Sea, and likely cruise missiles launched by Tu-95MS strategic bombers. Lithuania also temporarily closed its Vilnius airport after detecting unidentified aerial balloons, reflecting increased regional tensions and security precautions. Ukraine remains under continuous air raid alerts as its military counters ongoing missile and drone strikes, with casualties reported in the Zaporizhzhia region. European airspace near Poland is experiencing disruptions, with altered flight routes and warnings issued by air traffic control authorities due to the evolving security situation.