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NATO Scrambles Fighter Jets Amid Russian Missile Attacks
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources.
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Fighter jets from NATO nations, including Poland and Sweden, were scrambled after Russia launched long-range missile strikes on Ukraine overnight.
"On the night of August 18 to 19, 2025, the long-range aviation of the Russian Federation once again launched missile attacks on Ukrainian territory," the Polish military said in a statement posted to social media on Monday.
"To ensure the safety of Polish airspace, the Operational Command of the Polish Armed Forces has activated all necessary procedures. Polish and allied aircraft have begun operations, and ground-based air defense and radar reconnaissance systems have reached the highest state of readiness."
It added that Gripen fighter jets belonging to Sweden's air force, some of which are stationed in Poland, "helped ensure safety in Polish skies tonight."
Ukraine's Air Force said Russia fired 280 air attack vehicles on the country overnight, including 270 Shahed-style drones, five Iskander-M ballistic missiles, and five KH-101 cruise missiles.
President Donald Trump held meetings on Monday with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and other European leaders in Washington, D.C., regarding peace negotiations in the Russia-Ukraine war.
F-16 fighter jets flying over Warsaw, Poland, in 2023.
F-16 fighter jets flying over Warsaw, Poland, in 2023.
Czarek Sokolowski/AP
This is a developing story. More to follow.
