NATO Scrambles Warplanes as Ukraine Faces Largest Attack in Ongoing Conflict

NATO's air forces were activated overnight due to a large-scale offensive on Ukraine, marking one of the most intense assaults in the ongoing conflict that has lasted for over 1,200 days. Key locations such as the western city of Ivano-Frankivsk and major urban centers including Kyiv and Kharkiv were targeted by a barrage of hypersonic missiles and drones, which led to notable casualties and infrastructure damage in several areas.

In retaliation, Ukraine's forces have increasingly employed drones to disrupt Russian logistical networks, including a drone strike that caused significant delays along military supply routes. Polish military officials reported heightened readiness among their air defenses as NATO allies prepared to respond to the escalating threat, with attacks occurring just miles from the borders of NATO member countries.

The bombardment on Ivano-Frankivsk was described as the fiercest of the war, resulting in injuries among civilians, including children. In Kyiv, Russian strikes wreaked havoc on both military and civilian infrastructure, causing destruction across multiple districts and even impacting a school. Amidst the chaos, public sentiment in Russia appeared to shift, as frustrations grew over the impact of the ongoing conflict and the resultant travel disruptions, with reports indicating an uptick in criticism of Putin's administration.

Additionally, the ongoing air assault has severely affected civilian air travel in Russia, with major Moscow airports facing cancellations and delays. Passengers were left stranded and faced difficult conditions as flights were rerouted and train services were disrupted following drone strikes on key transportation hubs. As cleanup and recovery efforts continued amid relentless attacks, Russian air defenses claimed to have intercepted numerous Ukrainian drones, yet the conflict continues to take a toll on both sides.