In brief
Russia has struck Kyiv’s Pivnichnyi and Pivdennyi bridges for consecutive days, marking a targeted assault on the capital’s critical infrastructure. The most recent hit came as German Chancellor Friedrich Merz visited Kyiv, highlighting the geopolitical significance of the attacks. BBC Ukraine correspondent Dan Johnson, stationed near a damaged bridge, reports that the damage has disrupted transit but military control remains. Analysts warn that sustained bridge attacks could hamper civilian movement and distort regional logistics amid ongoing war.
In the last four days, Russian forces have directed missile and drone strikes at Kyiv’s major bridges, targeting the northern and southern spans that link the city’s east and west sides.
The Pivnichnyi Bridge suffered a second consecutive hit, while the Pivdennyi Bridge was struck multiple times earlier this week, according to satellite imagery and reports from Ukrainian officials.
The latest assault came as German Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrived in Kyiv for a surprise diplomatic visit, underscoring the symbolic weight of the city’s infrastructure amid the wider conflict.
BBC Ukraine correspondent Dan Johnson, standing near the damaged northern bridge, explained that debris has halted traffic but the bridge remains operational for military movements. He added that repair efforts are underway, but the continuous barrage may further impede civilian transit.
Military strategists warn that repeated attacks on critical junctions could alter supply routes, pressure emergency services, and complicate humanitarian aid deliveries in the region.
For further reading, see the BBC feature on these strikes and the broader implications for Ukraine’s war‑time infrastructure resilience.
