In a significant escalation of the ongoing conflict, Russian forces launched an extensive aerial assault on Ukraine, deploying at least 479 attack drones in what has been described as one of the largest overnight strikes of the war, according to statements from Ukraine's air force on Monday. The latest reports indicate that the Ukrainian air defense successfully neutralized 479 enemy air attack vehicles, with 292 drones shot down by defensive fire and 187 lost in various locations across the country.
In a message posted in Ukrainian, the air force detailed the effectiveness of its defense systems, highlighting the swift response to the drone threat. Early on Monday, the Ukrainian air force issued a series of alerts as Russian drones targeted multiple regions throughout the country, signaling a critical moment in the conflict.
Simultaneously, the Polish armed forces took precautionary measures as the threat level increased. They scrambled Polish and allied aircraft into the airspace, ready to respond to any potential incursions. The operation commander of the armed forces in Poland mobilized all available resources, ensuring that fighter pairs were prepared for action while ground-based air defense and radar reconnaissance systems were set to their highest state of readiness. This prompt action underscores the heightened tensions in the region.
Approximately three hours after the initial alerts, around 7 a.m. local time, the Polish military reported a reduction in the threat level posed by Russian strikes. As a result, Polish and allied warplanes were returned to their routine operations. Fortunately, the Polish military confirmed that there had been no violations of their airspace during the incident, providing some reassurance amidst the turmoil.
This situation remains fluid, with updates expected as the conflict evolves. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, particularly concerning the implications of these drone strikes on regional stability and security. For the latest updates on this developing story, please check back regularly.
