Russia Pounds Ukraine With Drone Strikes As German Chancellor Visits Kyiv

Kyiv, Ukraine experienced another Russian strike on Sunday, following German Chancellor Friedrich Merz's surprise visit to support Ukraine amid escalating attacks. Air raid sirens echoed across the capital throughout the morning, coinciding with Merz's meeting with President Volodymyr Zelensky at the National Academy of Sciences, which was targeted by a Russian attack drone on Tuesday.

Zelensky condemned the attacks, branding Russia's adversaries "absolute barbarians" and describing the violence as "pointless." Merz expressed dismay at the "barbarous attacks on the civilian population of Ukraine" and called for an end to the daily atrocities.

The Northern Bridge, a crucial link between Kyiv's eastern and western sections, suffered damage from a missile strike, as evidenced by images circulating on social media. Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko stated that the city, typically shielded from major frontline destruction, should now operate under a heightened war alert due to the surge in attacks. Recent assaults have targeted residential areas, infrastructure, schools, and communications, with near-continuous air raid sirens disrupting daily life.

Merz emphasized Ukraine's need for extensive Western support, including advanced interceptors to neutralize Russia's advanced, jet-powered drones. Ukrainian President Zelensky pledged significant agreements during Merz's visit, which were expected to result in a new military aid package worth over $1 billion. The aid would bolster Ukraine's air defenses, including combat drones, satellite technology to target Russian launch sites, and joint production of anti-aircraft drones.

Merz's visit also focused on uniting NATO and the EU against Russia, as well as rallying support within Germany, where far-right, pro-Moscow political parties are gaining traction. Russia had warned foreigners and diplomats to leave Kyiv, threatening that massive new airstrikes would follow if they did not comply. Despite these threats, European embassies remain in the city, confident that their contingency plans will ensure their safety.

The EU Delegation in Kyiv reaffirmed its commitment to Ukraine, dismissing Moscow's warnings as attempts to undermine Western support for Ukraine. Last winter, Russian attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure left millions without power and heating for days, temperatures plummeting to -20°C. Kyiv, home to three million residents, is now preparing for another winter under siege.

The government has advised the vulnerable and disabled to consider leaving the city. Merz's trip was anticipated to announce €350 million in aid for generators, transformer stations, and grid repairs.