Russia's Bridge Attacks Threaten to Split Kyiv

Russia attacked Kyiv's North Bridge over the Dnipro River on Saturday morning, part of a new wave targeting the city's infrastructure. The strikes threaten to sever the capital's two riverbanks, complicating life for the three million residents already enduring constant shelling and power outages. The assault, which began September 30, focuses on Kyiv's energy grid and power lines between the river's banks, using a new jet drone with a specialized warhead. While current warm weather limits immediate impact, air defense is weakened by a shortage of Patriot missiles, with drone interception rates at 55-60 percent. Russia also systematically targets Kyiv's bridges, including the strategically vital South Bridge, to disrupt daily commutes for 600,000 people. Authorities plan pontoon bridges within three months, while experts doubt permanent destruction is achievable. The escalation precedes upcoming trilateral talks between Russia, Ukraine, and the US.