Focus – Moscow intensifies attacks on Kyiv: diplomats and foreigners should leave

KYIV, October 4 /ATSH-ANSA/ – Russia has stepped up drone and missile attacks on Ukraine, while the clash between Moscow and Kyiv is increasingly focusing also on vital infrastructure and the energy network, on the eve of winter.

One of the latest targets was Kyiv’s Northern Bridge, over the Dnipro River. The Russian Defence Ministry declared that the bridge was hit overnight with unmanned aerial vehicles, claiming that it was used for the movement of troops and military supplies. The Ukrainian authorities reported damage to the bridge’s infrastructure and traffic restrictions.

Moscow has also warned of further massive attacks and has called on diplomats and foreign nationals to leave Kyiv.

The strike on the Northern Bridge comes after recent attacks on other infrastructure in the capital, causing significant traffic problems. The Ukrainian authorities have warned that attacks on critical infrastructure could worsen the city’s situation ahead of the cold months.

At the same time, the main concern is linked to the Ukrainian energy network.

According to an intercepted Russian document, which Ukraine’s energy minister, Denys Shmyhal, has presented to European partners and which has been reviewed by The New York Times, a possible winter plan envisages the use of up to 1,000 missiles, drones and bombs against energy facilities and water infrastructure.

The document mentions electrical substations, hydroelectric plants, thermal power plants and water supply systems.

The New York Times nevertheless stresses that the document has not been independently verified and it remains unclear whether the plan will be implemented in full.

The recent attacks have raised concerns about a new winter campaign against Ukraine’s energy infrastructure.

Only a few days ago, a broad Russian missile and drone attack caused casualties and power outages in several areas, while Kyiv asks its allies for more air defence systems.

Meanwhile, during his visit to Kyiv, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced a new aid package for Ukraine, including around 1 billion euros in military aid and 350 million euros for repairing energy infrastructure.

In this climate of escalation, diplomatic efforts for a lowering of tensions remain fragile, while both sides continue to strike strategic targets on the opponent’s territory.