Росія intensifying her attacks on Ukraine’s railway network, posing a significant threat to the country’s economy and military supply lines. According to a recent report by The Wall Street Journal, the Kremlin has focused on disrupting this vital artery, responsible for transporting over 60% of Ukraine’s freight and crucial supplies for the front lines.
“Укрзалізниця” reports that Russia has launched more than 1100 attacks on the railway infrastructure since the beginning of the war, surpassing the combined attacks from 2023 and 2024. These targeted attacks have hit trains, control centers, depots, bridges, and substations—all vital components of the network.
The damage inflicted is substantial, estimated at $5.8 billion. “This is a war on rails,” explained Oleksandr Perciovskyi, head of “Укрзалізниця,” “Almost every link in the chain is targeted.”
Initially, Russia appeared to avoid harming Ukrainian railways, anticipating their use for governing the country should they seize control. Now, as Moscow applies pressure for a peace agreement, the railway has become a primary target.
“Укрзалізниця” is implementing safety measures, including helmets for train crews and drone-suppression equipment. However, resources are stretched, as demonstrated by the situation at the station in Lozova, Kharkiv region, which has been repeatedly struck. “We simply stop everything when the siren sounds,” says Nina Zabela, station master in Lozova, emphasizing the priority of saving lives.
Recent incidents, such as a derailed freight train near Korosten and drone attacks in Odesa, underscore the vulnerability of the railway. These attacks have caused significant delays and disruptions to transport schedules.
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