Poland scrambles fighter jets as Russia strikes western Ukraine

Polish and allied fighter jets were scrambled over Polish airspace early Saturday in response to a large-scale Russian aerial attack on Ukraine, including strikes near Poland’s eastern border, the country’s military said.

The smoke clouds rise in the sky after the overnight attack in Lviv, Ukraine, 12 July 2025, amid the Russian invasion.

Photo: EPA/MYKOLA TYS

According to the Operational Command of the Polish Armed Forces, Russia's long-range aviation launched strikes on targets in western Ukraine, prompting the activation of NATO aircraft and Polish air defence systems.

Fighter jets were airborne for approximately three hours, while ground-based air defence and radar systems were placed on the highest level of readiness during the incident.

The measures were taken as a precaution to ensure the safety of Polish territory adjacent to the conflict zone, the military said.

All forces have since returned to standard operational activity, the statement added.

(ał)

Source: IAR