Russian forces struck one of Kyiv's main bridges on 4 October 2026, causing a fireball explosion while German Chancellor Friedrich Merz was visiting the city. The key Northern Bridge was reportedly hit by a new jet-powered long-range attack drone, with cars on the crossing appearing to be hit.
Damage and emergency response
The blast damaged the road surface as drivers navigated flames and blast craters. Mayor Vitali Klitschko confirmed emergency services were deployed to the scene, halting traffic toward Kyiv's right bank.
Second strike in two days
It was the second strike in two days on the Northern Bridge, coming amid a campaign by Russian President Vladimir Putin to disrupt life in the city. Earlier, reports indicated Kyiv is preparing pontoon bridges across the Dnipro River in case Russia destroys the existing bridges.
Russia has until now mostly not struck when senior Western leaders or officials have been in Kyiv.
