Europe on Edge: Overnight Russian Actions Spark Airspace Closures and NATO Alert
Overnight, Russian military actions escalated, causing widespread disruption and concern across Europe. Lithuania's Vilnius airport closed due to balloon reports, while Ukraine faced intense air defence activity, including strikes on Lviv. Poland and NATO responded swiftly to secure airspace and raise alert levels.
The night began with Vilnius airport closing due to suspected balloon activity, causing significant disruption to commercial aviation. Meanwhile, Russian forces targeted Lviv, just 43 miles from the Polish border, placing all of Ukraine under air raid alerts.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk confirmed 'preventive air operations' in Polish airspace. Polish and NATO aircraft were deployed, and ground-based air defence systems went to maximum alert. Lublin Airport in eastern Poland was temporarily closed to civilian traffic due to military aviation activities.
NATO allies remain on high alert due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and increasing Russian military operations. Estonia summoned a Russian diplomat after three fighter aircraft violated its airspace. Poland's Armed Forces reached their highest state of readiness due to Russian airstrikes on Ukraine. NATO's alert status was raised to the highest level in response to deliberate Russian military actions and provocations.
Russian strikes involved Tu-95MS and Tu-160 strategic bombers armed with Kinzhal hypersonic missiles, each costing around £11 million.
The overnight events highlight the escalating tension and security concerns across Europe due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. While the situation remains fluid, NATO allies and European nations are taking proactive measures to ensure the safety and security of their citizens and airspace.
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