Russia strikes second major bridge in Kyiv

A Russian strike hit Kyiv’s Northern Bridge across the Dnipro River on Saturday, damaging the road surface and trolleybus overhead wires, according to Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko. Traffic across the bridge was temporarily suspended as emergency crews responded. Two people were injured, according to Klitschko.

Southern Bridge was also targeted

The strike follows several Russian drone attacks on Kyiv’s Southern Bridge over the previous two days. The attacks damaged parts of the crossing and led to temporary closures, adding pressure to the capital’s already congested transport network.

Bridges connect Kyiv’s two banks

The Northern and Southern bridges are important routes across the Dnipro, connecting Kyiv’s eastern and western areas. More than a third of the capital’s roughly three million residents live on the eastern bank, while many workplaces and government institutions are located on the western side.

Traffic disrupted across the capital

The repeated attacks have caused major traffic problems as commuters seek alternative routes across the river. Restrictions on other crossings during air alerts have added to the disruption, with authorities redirecting some public transport services.

Russia says bridges support military logistics

Moscow has said the bridges are used to transport Ukrainian troops and military supplies. Russian officials have also urged foreign nationals, including diplomats, to leave Kyiv as attacks on the capital intensify.

Experts assess bridge damage

Experts quoted by Ukrainian media have said individual drone strikes are unlikely to completely destroy major bridges of this size. However, repeated attacks could force prolonged closures, disrupt logistics and potentially weaken infrastructure over time.

Kyiv considers alternative crossings

Ukrainian lawmakers have reportedly discussed contingency measures if major bridges become unusable, including the possible use of ferries and temporary pontoon crossings to maintain connections between the two sides of the city.

Wider attacks across Ukraine

The bridge strike came amid further Russian attacks across Ukraine. Ukrainian authorities reported casualties in several regions, while a sailor aboard a Liberia-flagged civilian vessel was killed in an attack on a port in the Odesa region.

Moscow and Kyiv exchange accusations

Russian President Vladimir Putin has described attacks on Ukrainian economic infrastructure as a response to Ukrainian strikes on Russian energy facilities and ships. Ukraine says its attacks on Russian oil infrastructure are intended to disrupt resources it says help finance the war.

Kyiv prepares for further attacks

The latest strikes have increased concerns in Kyiv about continued attacks on critical infrastructure ahead of winter. Ukrainian authorities are also monitoring the wider threat to energy supplies and essential services as Russia continues its aerial campaign.