Poland has taken swift action to safeguard its airspace, activating aircraft early Sunday morning following reports of Russian missile and drone strikes targeting Ukraine‘s western Lviv region.
The Operational Command of the Polish armed forces confirmed the activation, stating it was done to “ensure the security” of Poland’s airspace amidst heightened tensions.
The Command noted the significant uptick in long-range aviation activity from Russia, specifically related to air and missile strikes against Ukrainian territory.
This move by Poland follows reports from Ukrainian officials detailing a barrage of approximately 20 missiles and seven Shahed attack drones launched by Russia, specifically targeting the western Lviv region.
The Lviv mayor, Andrii Sadovyi, disclosed that critical infrastructure was the primary aim, but fortunately, no direct hits were reported within the city itself.
In response to the escalating situation, Operational Command disclosed that both Polish and allied aircraft had been activated, “which may be associated with the occurrence of increased noise levels, especially in the southeastern area of the country.”
The Command reassured citizens that all necessary procedures had been put in place to ensure the security of Polish airspace amidst the unfolding events.
Kyiv mayor Vitali Klitschko also said that a series of explosions rocked the Ukrainian capital overnight, with missile debris landing in the Desnianskyi district.
He wrote on Telegram: “Explosions in the capital. Air defence is active. Do not leave your shelters.”
