Updated

In early October 2026, Russian forces began striking Kyiv's bridges across the Dnipro River for the first time since the invasion began, hitting the South Bridge over two days and then the Northern (Pivnichnyi) Bridge with a jet-powered drone on October 3, damaging the road surface and trolleybus lines and injuring at least two people. Mayor Vitali Klitschko confirmed partial closures, and the NYT reported the strikes could create a 'logistical nightmare' for the capital if extended closures occur; Ukraine's Recovery Ministry announced plans for pontoon crossings and a possible tunnel under the river as contingencies. Russia's Foreign Ministry said it would continue 'massive strikes' on Kyiv and urged foreign diplomats to leave, framing the campaign as retaliation for Ukrainian 'terrorist acts,' while Ukraine denied a Guardian report that embassies were being evacuated from the city. The escalation marks a significant shift in Russian targeting strategy against critical civilian infrastructure in the capital.