NATO scrambles fighter jets as WW3 fears erupt over massive Russian attack

NATO warplanes were scrambled over Poland early amid one of Russia’s most intense missile and drone strikes of the war on western Ukraine.

“Polish and allied aircraft are operating intensively in our airspace, while ground-based air defence and radar reconnaissance systems have been brought to the highest state of readiness,” said Poland's operational command on X. “These operations are preventative in nature and aimed at securing airspace and protecting citizens, especially in areas adjacent to the threatened area. The Operational Command of the Polish Armed Forces is monitoring the current situation, and its subordinate forces and resources remain fully prepared for immediate response.”

The city of Lviv - only 43 miles from the Polish border - was shrouded in choking smoke from raging fires after suffering its worst attack of the entire three and a half year war. Residents were ordered to remain indoors and keep windows closed.

“In Lviv it is just hell right now,” said one report amid reported 25 thunderous strikes over five hours, which led to power cuts.

The Sparrow techno park was ablaze. Mayor Andriy Sadovyi said: “This is a civilian facility, without any military component.”

Russian sources suggested it was used for NATO supplies to Ukraine.

Residential buildings were hit, including those close to the airport, in the city as Putin’s military machine continues to terrorise ordinary Ukrainians.

The Russian strikes on Ukraine involved Kinzhal - or Dagger - hypersonic missiles, each costing £11 million, Kalibr cruise missiles, guiding aerial bombs and approximately 700 drones.

The devastating onslaught included the use of both Tu-95MS and Tu-160 strategic bombers, part of Vladimir Putin’s nuclear strike force, unleashing conventional missiles on Ukraine.

MiG-31 fighter jets were also deployed. Russia hit energy installations - plunging several parts of Ukraine into darkness but also residential buildings.

The western Ivano-Frankivsk region was also struck by Russians targeting the coal-fired Burshtyn power plant.

The Ladyzhyn Thermal Power Plant in Vinnytsia was also reportedly struck.

Odesa was hit, too, with a swarm of drones triggering fires.

Zaporizhzhia was hit by Shahed-type strike drones and guided aerial bombs, cutting electricity and water supplies.

Residential buildings were hit.

One person was killed, and at least 10 were injured. Meanwhile, yet another Russian oil refinery was burning - this time in Kstovo, Nizhny Novgorod region. NASA satellites detected thermal signatures at the plant.

Russia has suffered massive damage to its oil refining and supply infrastructure. from Ukrainian strikes in recent weeks. Russian oil reserves are at a five-year low.

Almost 40% of Russia's oil refinery capacities are not functioning following the wave of Ukrainian strikes. Petrol prices are soaring in many regions, with long, snaking queues at filling stations.