Russia hits Kyiv bridge as Germany’s Merz visits Ukraine’s capital

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz visited Kyiv on Sunday, pledging strong support for Ukraine amidst increased Russian attacks. His visit coincided with Russian strikes on a key bridge in the capital, occurring while air raid sirens sounded. Merz met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, emphasizing that Ukraine needs continued support and warning that Russia's aggression could eventually target Germany. The visit also included discussions on a potential deal for joint drone and weapons production and was accompanied by economic ministers and German business executives. Germany has been a significant supporter of Ukraine, with a recent military pact and planned aid packages for military and energy sector repairs.

Russia struck Kyiv's Northern Bridge with a drone shortly after German Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrived in the capital on an unannounced visit to show support for Ukraine. This marks the fourth consecutive day of Russian attacks on bridges in Kyiv, injuring two people. Merz's visit underscores Germany's backing, with the country being Ukraine's largest military aid provider. The attacks are part of a broader Russian campaign targeting Ukrainian infrastructure. Despite warnings from Russia's foreign ministry, foreign ambassadors, including Germany's, have stated their intention to remain in Kyiv. Merz faces domestic pressure regarding his support for Ukraine, with some parties advocating for reduced aid.

Russia struck a bridge in Kyiv on Sunday shortly after German Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrived in the capital on a surprise visit. Air raid sirens sounded across Kyiv as warnings of approaching Russian attack drones were issued. Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko confirmed that the Northern Bridge sustained damage to its road surface from the strike. Merz's visit aimed to demonstrate European support for Ukraine amidst an increase in Russian attacks. The article does not specify the exact timing of the strike relative to Merz's arrival beyond "soon after."

Russian forces conducted a drone attack on Kyiv on Sunday, hitting the Northern Bridge for the second consecutive day. This strike occurred as German Chancellor Friedrich Merz made a surprise visit to the capital. Major bridges in Kyiv have been targeted by Russian strikes for four days in a row, part of an escalation of attacks on critical infrastructure. Verified video footage shows a drone impacting the Northern Bridge, causing a large fireball and black smoke. The strike damaged a heating main, leading to a temporary loss of hot water in the Desnyanskyi district. No casualties have been reported.

Friedrich Merz made an unannounced visit to Kyiv, touring the city with President Zelenskyy. This visit occurred as Russia intensified its strikes on the Ukrainian capital, including an attack on the city's North Bridge. Kyiv is experiencing its most difficult period since the invasion's early days, with around-the-clock Russian attacks disrupting daily life and targeting infrastructure. Recent strikes have hit offices, datacenters, a school, a hospital, and energy facilities, causing power and water outages in several neighborhoods. Kyiv's mayor described the situation as dramatic, stating that the city can no longer pretend to live in peacetime.

Russia has struck a second major bridge in Kyiv, the Northern Bridge, following recent attacks on the Southern Bridge. Traffic on the Northern Bridge is currently blocked. These strikes on critical infrastructure, including bridges, have prompted Kyiv's defense council to hold a crisis meeting, with the mayor describing the city's situation as "very dramatic." Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that Russian President Vladimir Putin has decided there are "no rules now" when attacking Ukraine, aiming to destroy infrastructure and cause people to flee. Putin claims these actions are in response to Ukrainian strikes on Russian energy facilities, though the article notes Russia initiated such attacks.