German Chancellor Merz visits Kyiv as Russia strikes bridges

Unannounced visit shows European backing

Friedrich Merz traveled to Ukraine without prior notice to demonstrate solidarity with Kyiv. He met President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at a war memorial in the capital. This meeting occurred as Moscow intensified its campaign against critical infrastructure in the region.

Bridge damaged during drone attack

Russian forces launched drones that struck the Northern Bridge shortly after Merz landed in the city. Two individuals were wounded when the explosion damaged the road surface and overhead wires. Traffic resumed slowly on the structure despite the significant damage caused by the strike.

Warnings issued for foreign visitors

Moscow called on diplomats and foreigners to leave Kyiv due to the threat of massive air attacks. Russian officials stated that anyone ignoring these warnings bears full responsibility for their safety risks. Previous calls made in May were ignored by many world leaders who still visited the capital.