NATO warplanes were scrambled overnight in a dramatic show of force as Vladimir Putin launched a terrifying barrage of more than 500 missiles and drones across Ukraine.

The alliance sprang into action amid fears the Russian blitz could spill into neighbouring countries, with Poland confirming its fighter jets had been launched and its air defences placed on full alert.

The massive aerial assault, involving Tu-95 strategic bombers, MiG fighter jets, hypersonic Kinzhal ‘Dagger’ missiles, Iranian-designed Shahed drones and Iskander ballistic missiles, devastated swathes of Ukraine and triggered a desperate response from Kyiv’s air force. Continues…