NATO Jets Scrambled Following Massive Russian Drone Attack On Ukraine

By iHeartRadio

July 9, 2025

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Photo: JILMER POSTMA / AFP / Getty Images

NATO jets were scrambled overnight as Russia launched its largest drone attack on Ukraine to date, deploying more than 700 drones and 13 missiles. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported that the attack involved 728 drones, including over 300 Shaheds, and Kinzhals, and Iskanders missiles. Despite the intensity, Ukraine's air force successfully neutralized most of the threats, shooting down 718 enemy air attack vehicles, with 303 downed by fire and 415 lost in location.

The attack primarily targeted the northwestern city of Lutsk, home to key Ukrainian military airfields, and affected other regions, including Kyiv, Dnipro, and Kharkiv. As the situation unfolded, Poland, a NATO member, activated its air defenses and scrambled fighter jets to ensure security in areas bordering Ukraine. The Polish military later confirmed that operations in Polish airspace had concluded due to a reduced threat level.

President Donald Trump expressed frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin, pledging to send more weapons to Ukraine after a pause in critical deliveries. The attack comes amid ongoing efforts to establish peace, with Zelenskyy emphasizing the need for stronger sanctions against Russia. He called the attack a "demonstrative" move by Russia, rejecting attempts at achieving a ceasefire.

This escalation follows President Trump's criticism of Putin and threats of tougher sanctions, including 500% tariffs on Russian exports. Meanwhile, European nations are working on a new sanctions package against Moscow.

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