Kyiv: A series of intense Russian airstrikes struck Ukraine's capital, Kyiv, leaving six people dead and injuring at least 80 others. The attacks, which involved both missiles and drones, targeted civilian areas and critical infrastructure, causing widespread damage and chaos.

The strike comes shortly after Russian President Vladimir Putin warned of retaliation following drone attacks on Russian air bases. The latest assault appears to be a direct response, escalating the already volatile conflict between the two nations.

Among those killed were three emergency responders who had rushed to the scene of the first explosion. According to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, the rescue personnel became victims of subsequent waves of Russian bombardment. “They gave their lives while trying to save others. Russia deliberately targeted them during follow-up strikes,” Zelensky said in a statement.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Zbyha condemned the attacks, accusing Moscow of retaliating for the loss of its military aircraft by deliberately targeting civilians. He said that residential towers and parts of Ukraine’s energy infrastructure were badly damaged in the assault, further deepening the humanitarian crisis in the region.

As Kyiv reels from the destruction, international observers have called for renewed diplomatic efforts to halt the conflict, while Ukrainian officials continue to urge for stronger defense support from global allies.