Russia Targets Kyiv Digital Infrastructure and Bridges
Russian forces have escalated physical and digital attacks against Ukraine’s telecommunications infrastructure, data centers, and key transport bridges, hitting Kyivstar’s headquarters and damaging the Nord Bridge in Kyiv. The ongoing offensive has disrupted internet access for roughly 100,000 households and forced the closure of three of the capital’s six bridges over the Dnipro River. Russia has recently increased strikes against telecom companies and other digital infrastructure, which Ukraine views as its digital backbone.
Escalating Strikes on Kyivstar and Data Centers
Sunday’s strike hit the headquarters of Kyivstar, Ukraine’s largest mobile operator, though the company confirmed no employees were killed or injured. The Russian Ministry of Defense claimed responsibility for a separate strike targeting a data center belonging to Vodafone Ukraine, the country’s second-largest mobile operator, though Vodafone did not confirm the claim to Reuters.
These incidents follow a series of strikes throughout the previous week that targeted internet service providers and hosting facilities in and around Kyiv. Ukraine’s digital ministry noted that these actions severed internet access for approximately 100,000 households. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz visited Kyiv during the strikes to announce additional military aid, including luftvern-droner and long-range weapons. Merz arrived a day after Russia warned foreign diplomats to leave the capital, a similar warning to one issued in May.
Russian strikes close Kyiv bridges and trigger diplomatic departure advisory
Three of Kyiv’s six road bridges over the Dnipro River are now fully or partially closed following repeated drone and missile strikes. The Russian Ministry of Defense confirmed it struck the Nord Bridge, asserting that Ukrainian forces use the crossing for military logistics and troop movements. Two people were injured in the Nord Bridge attack. In response to the worsening security situation, the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued an advisory urging foreign nationals and diplomats to leave the Ukrainian capital.
The violence extended beyond the capital. Moldovan Prime Minister Maia Sandu stated on X that five Russian weapons—including missiles and drones—crossed into Moldovan airspace and exploded on the country’s territory. Meanwhile, regional officials reported five deaths and over 40 injuries in Kharkiv following drone and glide bomb strikes, while a civilian sailor was killed in Odesa when a commercial vessel was hit. In the Russian region of Belgorod, local authorities reported one civilian dead and two others injured on Saturday.
Ukraine plans refinery attacks while Russia targets urban centers
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyj announced plans to double attacks on Russian oil refineries in retaliation for Moscow’s campaign to force civilians out of urban centers. Zelenskyj stated that Russia is targeting roads, hospitals, and schools to pressure people to leave the capital. In response, Moscow stated it would increase strikes against Kyiv and other regions. Chancellor Merz warned that Europe’s security is directly tied to Ukraine’s defense, stating that the military machine will eventually turn outward if not stopped.
Karen-Anna Eggen told ABC Nyheter that the latest campaign represents a systematic intensification of physical attacks on the digital systems supporting Ukrainian society.
Frontline Status and Hybrid Warfare
President Zelenskyj stated that Ukraine has stabilized the situation on the Donetsk eastern front and that “Operation Vivaldi” is ongoing and successful. He further claimed that Russia’s hybrid attacks against Europe intend to weaken support for Ukraine and divide European nations. Zelenskyj also noted a need for more 20mm ammunition and fighter jets to combat jet-powered drones.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Attacks
How many households lost internet access during the recent strikes?
Ukraine’s digital ministry reported that approximately 100,000 households lost internet connectivity following attacks on data centers and internet service providers in and around Kyiv.
Which mobile operators were targeted by the recent Russian strikes?
Kyivstar confirmed that its main office was hit in an attack, while the Russian Ministry of Defense claimed to have targeted a data center belonging to Vodafone Ukraine.
How many bridge crossings remain open in Kyiv?
Three of Kyiv’s six road bridges over the Dnipro River are currently completely or partially closed following targeted strikes on transport infrastructure.
What was the reported impact in neighboring Moldova?
Moldovan Prime Minister Maia Sandu stated that five Russian weapons, consisting of missiles and drones, violated Moldovan airspace and exploded on national territory.