Russian drone slams into Kyiv bridge in escalating campaign as Germany’s chancellor arrives to airsirens and explosions

A Russian drone targeted a major bridge in Ukraine's capital, Kyiv, on Sunday as German Chancellor Friedrich Merz visited the city. The Northern Bridge was struck, causing a large fire and smoke plume, and it marked the second time the bridge had been hit in two days. On Thursday and Friday, Kyiv's Southern Bridge, which serves ground transportation and the city's subway system, was struck five times in less than 24 hours.

Ukrainian officials claim the strikes are aimed at dividing the capital, which is split along the Dnipro River. Merz visited Kyiv to show support for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky amid Russia's increased strikes on the city. "Ukraine needs all our support in the coming weeks," Merz stated. Zelensky warned that Ukraine's defensive needs are growing due to Russia's intensified air campaign.

Germany is set to provide €1 billion in military aid and €350 million for repairing Ukraine's damaged energy infrastructure. Kyiv is planning to build alternative crossings over the Dnipro River in case the bridge attacks continue.