A Russian jet-powered drone has struck the North Bridge in Kyiv for the second time in two days. Cars were travelling across the bridge at the time of the strike. There are preliminary reports of casualties, but there are currently no official figures on the number of dead or injured — the information is being verified.
Another strike on the North Bridge
The blast occurred on the morning of 4 October. Footage from the scene shows the moment of a powerful explosion directly on the bridge structure.
Traffic was not completely halted at the time of the strike — cars were still crossing the bridge. Initial reports suggest there may be casualties. The number of casualties and the condition of those affected are to be confirmed by the city authorities and the emergency services.
Until official information is released, it is too early to give an exact figure for the number of dead or injured.
The day before, two people were injured on the same bridge
A second blow to The Northern Bridge in a short space of time. In the morning 3 October A Russian jet-powered UAV also struck the crossing. At that time, the mayor of Kyiv Vitali Klitschko confirmed that two people were injured. One was treated at the scene, whilst the other was taken to hospital and subsequently transferred to outpatient care.
The impact caused damage to the road surface and the trolleybus overhead line. Traffic across the bridge was partially restricted.
Russia is deploying jet-powered drones on a massive scale
The new attack took place against the backdrop of a large-scale Russian strike on Ukraine. On the night of 4 October, the Russian Federation launched 135 drones, including those recorded by the Air Force 52 «Shahed» jet aircraft».
As of 08:30, air defences had shot down or neutralised 123 UAVs, although strikes were recorded at at least five locations. At that point, the attack was still ongoing.
Jet-powered versions of attack drones have a significantly higher speed, which reduces the time it takes to detect and intercept them.
Attacks on bridges in Kyiv have become systematic
Over the past few days, Russian troops have repeatedly attacked transport links in the capital. The first series of strikes took place on Southern Bridge, after which traffic on it was significantly restricted. On 3 October, the Northern Bridge came under attack. A new strike has now been recorded on it.
In the wake of these attacks, the authorities have already begun preparing alternative routes between the left and right banks of Kyiv. Options include earthen embankments with pontoon crossings, and in the long term, even a tunnel under the Dnipro is being considered.
Information on the consequences of the latest attack on the Northern Bridge is being updated.
