Five Killed as Russia and Ukraine Trade Strikes, Moscow Hits Second Bridge in Kyiv

At least five people were killed as Russian and Ukrainian forces traded strikes, with Russia hitting a second key bridge in Kyiv in as many days, according to Al Jazeera.

The attack on the bridge follows a similar strike reported the previous day, suggesting a continued Russian focus on infrastructure targets in and around the Ukrainian capital. Details about the extent of damage to the bridge, and the circumstances surrounding the five reported deaths, were not fully specified in initial reporting.

Continued exchange of attacks

Russia and Ukraine have regularly exchanged long-range strikes throughout the war, with Russia frequently targeting Ukrainian energy and transport infrastructure, and Ukraine periodically striking targets inside Russia, including with drones. Bridges, power plants, and other infrastructure have been recurring targets for Russian attacks, particularly as the conflict has continued into its fourth year.

Ukrainian officials have regularly condemned such strikes as attacks on civilian infrastructure, while Russia has generally characterized its strikes as targeting facilities it says are linked to Ukraine's military effort.

The latest strikes add to the toll of a war that has caused extensive damage to Ukrainian cities and infrastructure since Russia's full-scale invasion began in February 2022, with both sides showing no indication of a near-term halt to hostilities.