Ukraine to increase protection for railway infrastructure

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has announced enhanced security measures for Ukraine’s railway infrastructure following intensive Russian attacks. The decision follows a recent drone strike on a locomotive at the Jahodin border station in western Ukraine. Zelenskyy emphasized that the railway system is vital for national survival, providing essential logistics for civilian evacuations, grain transport, and the movement of life-sustaining goods.

The new security concept will focus on protecting railway facilities and border crossings to ensure the resilience of critical transport nodes. Zelenskyy praised railway employees for their professional and courageous work in maintaining high operational standards despite delays and physical damage.

Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha reported that over 500 locomotives have been damaged or destroyed since the start of the war, with more than half of those losses occurring this year. Sybiha has appealed to international supporters for financial aid and replacement locomotives compatible with the 1,520 mm track gauge used in former Soviet states.