Stories
Russia Targets Kyiv Bridges Amid Merz's Surprise Visit, Germany Pledges –1.3 Billion Aid
- •Kyiv faced its fourth day of Russian drone attacks, with the Pivnichnyi Bridge hit again, injuring two and disrupting traffic as German Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrived for an unannounced visit.
- •Russia intensified strikes on Kyiv's infrastructure, claiming bridges were used for Ukrainian troop movements, while Ukraine reported shooting down 125 out of 135 incoming drones.
- •Merz met with President Zelensky, laying wreaths for fallen soldiers and visiting damaged sites, assuring Ukraine of Germany's continued support during a crucial period.
- •Germany announced a new –1.3 billion aid package for Ukraine, including weapons and energy infrastructure support, making Germany the largest single donor since Merz became Chancellor.
- •Repeated Russian strikes raise concerns about the long-term condition of Kyiv's eight critical bridges, which are vital for the city's daily movement and transport network.
Key Questions Answered
Russian drone strikes hit Kyiv's Pivnichnyi Bridge for a second consecutive day, damaging the roadway and a traffic lane, while also injuring two people. The attacks have caused severe transport congestion across the Dnipro River and added pressure on the city's infrastructure.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced a new aid package worth more than €1.3 billion during his surprise visit to Kyiv. The package includes weapons and vital support for Ukraine's energy infrastructure to help the country prepare for the winter months.
The Russian military stated it would intensify strikes on Kyiv because the capital's bridges were being used to transport Ukrainian troops. Additionally, Russian President Vladimir Putin described the attacks on infrastructure as retaliation for Ukrainian strikes targeting Russian energy facilities.
