Kyiv: In a devastating overnight assault, Russian forces launched a barrage of drones and missiles on Ukraine's capital, Kyiv, resulting in four fatalities and injuring at least 20 individuals. The attack, characterized by powerful explosions that echoed throughout the city, marks one of the most intense strikes on Kyiv in recent months.

The offensive comes in the wake of Ukrainian drone operations that reportedly destroyed several of Russia's strategic bomber aircraft deep within Russian territory. In response, Russian President Vladimir Putin, through a message conveyed by U.S. President Donald Trump, had vowed retaliation.

Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko confirmed that among the injured, 16 are currently hospitalized. The city's metro system suffered disruptions due to damage inflicted on tracks between stations, and Ukraine's state rail company, Ukrzaliznytsia, reported detours of some trains owing to railway damage in the region.

In the Solomianskyi district, a Russian drone struck an apartment building, leaving a gaping hole and burn marks on its facade. Falling debris from the building crushed cars parked below, and investigators were seen examining remnants believed to be parts of the drone's engine.

Residents across Kyiv reported hearing the ominous buzz of drones overhead, followed by the sounds of Ukrainian anti-aircraft fire. The ensuing explosions were powerful enough to rattle windows far from the impact sites, prompting many to seek shelter in metro stations and underground car parks.

Beyond Kyiv, the western city of Ternopil experienced strikes on industrial facilities and infrastructure, leading to power outages in parts of the city. Five individuals were injured, and residents were advised to stay indoors due to a high concentration of toxic substances in the air following a fire. In Lutsk, located in northwestern Ukraine, five people were injured, and damage was reported to private homes, educational institutions, and government buildings.

The Ukrainian Air Force confirmed that the country had been targeted with drones and missiles overnight, further escalating the ongoing conflict. The Kremlin has indicated plans for an unspecified response to the Ukrainian drone assault on its air bases.

Source: News Agencies