Russian drone slams into Kyiv bridge in escalating campaign as Germany’s chancellor arrives

Kyiv experienced a series of renewed Russian drone attacks, including a strike on a key bridge, coinciding with an unannounced visit by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz to the Ukrainian capital on Sunday, October 4, 2026. The Northern Bridge (Pivnichnyi Bridge) was hit by a Russian drone, resulting in injuries to two individuals. This incident marked the fourth consecutive day of Russian forces targeting bridges in Kyiv, part of an intensifying campaign of aerial assaults on the city's critical infrastructure.

Chancellor Merz's visit aimed to demonstrate Germany's steadfast support for Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict. Throughout his time in Kyiv, air raid sirens frequently sounded, offering the German leader a direct experience of the daily realities faced by the Ukrainian capital. During his visit, Merz pledged further military aid and announced German funding for the joint production of drones designed to intercept Russian attacks, emphasizing the urgent need to strengthen Ukraine's air defenses.