NATO has scrambled its fighter jets and put them on the "highest state of readiness" after Russia launched brutal strikes in Western Ukraine. Its Armed Forces Operational Command confirmed on X that allied air forces had also joined patrols over Polish airspace near the Ukrainian border.

The post said: “The steps taken are aimed at ensuring safety in areas bordering the threatened areas." Polish radar and reconnaissance systems were also placed on alert. Officials stressed their forces remained ready to respond “immediately” if necessary.

Military flights over Polish airspace concluded following the end of Russia's long-range airstrikes on Ukraine, the post explained.

It added: "Poland's air defence and radar systems, which had been activated in response, are now back to routine operations.

"Authorities confirmed there were no breaches of Polish airspace.

"The Polish Armed Forces continue to monitor the situation in Ukraine closely and remain on standby to safeguard national airspace."

A Russian missile and drone attack on Kyiv overnight resulted in nine deaths and 70 injuries, including six children, Ukrainian officials reported Thursday.

The Kyiv City Military Administration confirmed that at least 45 drones were involved in the strike, with Ukraine's Air Force expected to provide updated figures later.

The assault came amid stalled peace talks, as President Donald Trump criticised President Volodymyr Zelensky for refusing to cede Crimea to Russia as part of a peace plan.

Rescue operations continued early Thursday morning, with emergency workers recovering bodies from collapsed buildings and tending to the wounded.

UK fighter jets have intercepted two Russian aircraft flying close to NATO airspace on April 15 as part of the UK’s contribution to NATO’s enhanced Air Policing mission.

Two RAF Typhoons were scrambled from Malbork Air Base in Poland to intercept a Russian Ilyushin Il-20M intelligence aircraft over the Baltic Sea.

A second scramble followed shortly after to intercept an unidentified aircraft leaving Kaliningrad airspace.

They marked the RAF’s first intercepts under Operation CHESSMAN, supporting NATO’s Eastern Flank alongside Sweden.