Russian forces struck Kyiv's Northern Bridge overnight, the mayor said, following a recent strike on another key crossing in the capital.

The strike came after Russian forces hit the Zhuliany Bridge earlier this week, a move that has intensified concerns about the protection of Kyiv's infrastructure.

Kyiv city centre with a partially damaged bridge

Impact on Kyiv's transport links

The Northern Bridge, a vital artery that links the city’s western and eastern districts, was reported to be damaged but not destroyed. According to the mayor of Kyiv, the city’s transport chief, the bridge remains partially functional, with traffic rerouted to a temporary detour.

Officials say emergency crews are inspecting the structure for safety. Residents on the western side of the city have reported increased congestion as vehicles wait for the detour to be cleared.

Russia’s pattern of targeting infrastructure

Russia has repeatedly targeted critical infrastructure in Kyiv over the past two years. The 2022 invasion saw attacks on rail links, power stations and bridges, with the aim of disrupting civilian life and undermining Ukraine’s war effort.

Last week’s strike on the Zhuliany Bridge, a 600‑metre span over the Dnipro River, caused significant traffic delays and damaged several support pylons. The Ukrainian defence ministry confirmed the strike but said the bridge remained operational for emergency services.

Political and strategic implications

The mayor’s comments come as Kyiv’s leadership continues to rally the city’s residents for the defence of the capital. Local officials have called for heightened security measures at other key bridges, including the Rivne Bridge and the Dnipro Bridge.

Russia’s continued focus on bridges underscores a strategy aimed at isolating the capital and hampering the movement of troops and supplies. Analysts suggest that repeated attacks may aim to force Ukraine into a costly rebuilding effort, diverting resources from the front lines.

Ukraine’s response and future plans

Ukraine’s Ministry of Infrastructure has announced plans to accelerate the construction of additional detour routes around the city. The ministry also said it is reviewing the security protocols for bridges and other critical infrastructure.

In the coming days, Kyiv officials will likely hold a briefing on the status of the Northern Bridge and the city’s emergency response plans.