In 2025, the Ukrainian railway succeeded in developing international connections, updating rolling stock, and integrating into the European transport space.
During this year, Ukraine managed to increase the number of tickets for routes to EU countries by 20% compared to the previous year. A new European standard railroad was also built on the Chop - Uzhhorod section. For the first time, the restoration of night trains to Uzhhorod from other regions of the country is planned.
Alongside international routes, domestic passenger services have significantly improved. Ukrzaliznytsia updated its rolling stock and stations.
An agreement was also signed with Alstom for the supply of 55 dual-system electric locomotives for the modernization of the traction fleet. At the beginning of 2026, a modern service center for the maintenance of locomotives based on Ukrzaliznytsia is planned to be created.
Bringing the Ukrainian Railway Sector in Line with EU Requirements
An important aspect was the development and submission to the Verkhovna Rada of a draft law on the safety and interoperability of rail transport in accordance with European standards. This is part of Ukraine's fulfillment of its obligations under the Association Agreement with the EU and the Ukraine Facility initiative.
In 2026, the Ministry of Development, in cooperation with Ukrzaliznytsia, will continue to implement all key areas of railway sector development.
This includes the modernization of rolling stock, expansion of international routes, digitalization of services, increasing accessibility, and reforms aimed at Eurointegration.
Oleksiy Kuleba, Oleksiy Balesta
In 2025, the Ukrainian railway achieved significant success in developing international connections and upgrading transport infrastructure. In particular, it was possible to increase the number of tickets for routes to EU countries and improve domestic passenger services. In the future, active modernization and development of Ukrainian railway transport in accordance with European standards is planned.