**Devastating Strikes in Kyiv: A Tragic Toll Amid Escalating Conflict**

**Military operations intensify with casualties and infrastructural damage across multiple regions.**

In the early hours of Friday, a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict erupted as Russia unleashed a wave of drone and missile strikes across Ukraine, leading to catastrophic consequences in Kyiv and beyond. According to local officials, the assault claimed the lives of at least four individuals, with a minimum of 20 more sustaining injuries. Kyiv's mayor, Vitaliy Klitschko, confirmed that among the deceased were three rescue workers who had been responding to the emergency amidst the strikes. The State Emergency Service of Ukraine (DSNS) reported that another nine rescue workers were injured, some of whom are in critical condition and fighting for their lives.

The attacks also targeted the regions of Lutsk and Ternopil, with significant military officials describing the strikes as the most extensive air assault on Ternopil thus far. Mayor Igor Polishchuk reported that five people were injured and substantial damage was inflicted on residential areas, schools, and governmental buildings. Lutsk's mayor, Ihor Polishchuk, revealed that 15 drones and six missiles had been deployed in their region, resulting in further injuries.

In a reflection of the escalating hostilities, air raid alerts were issued not only for Kyiv but also for Kharkiv, Sumy, and Luhansk. In the wake of the shelling, Kyiv's public transport system suffered disruptions due to damaged metro tracks.

In response to Ukraine's recent military operations – including a large-scale drone attack on crucial Russian airbases – Russian President Vladimir Putin reiterated the stance that military responses were warranted. This latest episode of violence comes closely on the heels of Ukraine's notable drone operation dubbed "Spider's Web," which utilized 117 drones to inflict damage on multiple Russian military assets. The cycle of retaliation and counter-retaliation intensifies, echoing across the broader landscape of the conflict.