Poland scrambled fighter jets early Christmas morning in response to Russian missile attacks targeting Ukraine, according to the Operational Command of the Polish Armed Forces.
The command announced on X, formerly Twitter, that fighters were scrambled and ground-based air defense systems placed on high alert near Poland’s border with Ukraine.
Newsweek has contacted Poland’s Ministry of National Defense and Russia’s Ministry of Defense for comment.
Why It Matters
Amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, tensions along NATO‘s eastern flank are high because of the risks posed by Russian military actions near the borders of alliance member states.
NATO member Poland has repeatedly taken measures to safeguard its airspace and maintain readiness amid the conflict in Ukraine.
Polish F-16 fighter jets are seen over Warsaw, Poland, on August 15, 2023. Poland scrambled fighters early Christmas morning in response to a Russian missile attack targeting Ukraine.
Polish F-16 fighter jets are seen over Warsaw, Poland, on August 15, 2023. Poland scrambled fighters early Christmas morning in response to a Russian missile attack targeting Ukraine.
Czarek Sokolowski/ASSOCIATED PRESS
What To Know
Poland’s military command reported that fighter jets were scrambled as Russia launched missiles into Ukraine early on Wednesday.
Attacks targeting Ukraine’s energy infrastructure were reported in cities including Kharkiv, Dnipro, Kremenchuk, Kryvyi Rih and Ivano-Frankivsk.
The Operational Command said Poland’s forces were placed on heightened alert as part of a coordinated defense strategy in areas bordering Ukraine, emphasizing continuous monitoring of the situation even during holidays.
The Operational Command reiterated that such measures are standard procedure during perceived threats near Poland’s borders.
Similar action was taken earlier this month, when Poland responded to Russian missile strikes on Ukraine by scrambling fighter jets.
Poland also scrambled two F-16 jets to intercept a Russian Il-20 aircraft performing a reconnaissance mission in international airspace over the Baltic Sea in August.
The Operational Command stressed the importance of immediate readiness to counter potential spillover from the conflict in Ukraine into NATO territory.
What People Are Saying
Operational Command of the Polish Armed Forces said on X: “The steps taken are aimed at ensuring safety in areas bordering the threatened areas 24/7, including during the holiday season.”
Mayor of Kharkiv Igor Terekhov said on Telegram: “Kharkiv is under massive rocket fire. A series of explosions have been heard in the city and there are still ballistic missiles heading towards the city. Stay in safe places.”
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Syhiba said on X: “Another massive Russian strike against Ukraine’s energy system.
“This Christmas terror is Putin’s response to those who spoke about illusionary “Christmas ceasefire”.”
What Happens Next
Poland’s military will continue to monitor the situation and maintain its heightened state of readiness while coordinating with NATO allies. Further responses will depend on the scale and impact of future Russian actions.