A Russian drone struck a key bridge in Kyiv as German Chancellor Friedrich Merz made a surprise visit to the Ukrainian capital in a show of support for President Volodymyr Zelensky.
Kyiv Mayor Vitaliy Klitschko said two people were injured in the attack on the Northern Bridge.
Footage from the scene showed a massive fire and thick black smoke rising from the bridge, while vehicles continued to move through the area.
The Northern Bridge was reportedly struck for the second time in just two days, as Russia continues to intensify its aerial attacks on Kyiv.
Another key crossing, the Southern Bridge, was also hit five times in less than 24 hours.
The latest attack came as Merz met with Zelensky to advance a defense and industrial partnership between Germany and Ukraine, including plans for joint production of drones and missiles.
Germany is also expected to provide one billion euros in military assistance to Ukraine, plus another 350 million euros for the repair of damaged energy infrastructure.
Zelensky said Ukraine’s need for air defense systems continues to grow as Russia steps up its air campaign.
Moscow has increasingly deployed high-speed, jet-powered Shahed-type drones, which can pose a challenge to Ukraine’s traditional air defense systems.
(Photo Courtesy: Reuters)
