Russian Drone Strikes Kyiv Bridge During German Chancellor's Visit; Putin Reportedly Plans Mobilization
An explosion rocked Kyiv's Northern Bridge amid a visit by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, as Russia signals intensified attacks and potential mass conscription.
A Russian drone struck Kyiv's Northern Bridge on Sunday, causing a large explosion and fiery aftermath while German Chancellor Friedrich Merz was visiting the Ukrainian capital. The attack coincided with reports that Russian President Vladimir Putin is preparing for a mass military mobilization.
Dramatic footage captured the moment a drone impacted the busy bridge during morning traffic, sending a plume of fire and smoke into the sky. Kyiv Mayor Vitaliy Klitschko reported that two people were injured in the incident. Police and emergency services were seen assessing the damage to the span.
The Kremlin had previously issued warnings to Europe, particularly Germany, to cease its support for Ukraine as the country defends itself against the Russian invasion. This strike on the Northern Bridge follows recent attacks on other key infrastructure in Kyiv, including multiple strikes on the city's Southern Bridge earlier in the week.
The Russian Ministry of Defense stated on Sunday that strikes against military and industrial facilities in Kyiv and other Ukrainian regions would be intensified. "Strikes by the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation against military and military-industrial facilities, as well as associated infrastructure in Kyiv and other regions of Ukraine, will be intensified," the ministry said in a statement.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with Chancellor Merz, discussing a new aid package valued at nearly $1.5 million, which includes weapons and support for Ukraine's energy sector ahead of winter. Zelensky also emphasized the critical need for air defense systems.
Analysts suggest the upcoming winter could prove pivotal in the conflict, presenting logistical challenges for Ukraine amid cold weather and potentially forcing Putin to address troop shortages. The Sunday Times reported that Putin has implemented new restrictions on young men, aimed at facilitating another round of mass conscription. Leaked documents indicate that men may need to present draft papers before engaging in significant financial transactions such as mortgages or property sales.
Following initial backlash and emigration during the early stages of the war, Russia had largely avoided widespread mobilization. However, reports suggest a growing need for personnel has led to plans for conscripting 120,000 soldiers this fall. Colonel General Yevgeny Burdinsky, head of the General Staff’s mobilization department, reportedly instructed conscripts to be prepared for deployment as early as October 10, while asserting they would not be sent to the front lines.