Passenger Train Kyiv–Mykolaiv Targeted by Russia; Evacuation Completed Without Injuries

Attack on a Passenger Train

According to Рубрика — Суспільство: Russian forces launched an assault on passenger train No. 122 traveling the Kyiv–Mykolaiv route. Thanks to prompt action, all passengers, as well as the locomotive and train crew, were safely evacuated before the strike occurred, resulting in no casualties. Ukrzaliznytsia reported the incident, with its CEO Oleksandr Peretskovskyi emphasizing that

“preserving all lives is our top priority. We are grateful to our team for their precise and coordinated response.”

Railway Safety Measures

Ukrzaliznytsia, in cooperation with the Mykolaiv Regional Military Administration, has arranged bus transfers for affected passengers as part of ongoing efforts to protect civilians amid continued Russian attacks on railway infrastructure. On September 13, a Russian drone targeted the locomotive of the Kyiv–Warsaw passenger train just two kilometers from the border. Passengers and railway personnel evacuated safely, with no injuries reported.

Before the attack near Yahodyn station, a diplomatic train carrying security advisors from several EU countries, including former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, was present. Due to the heightened threat of Russian strikes, the Kyiv–Warsaw train departed earlier than scheduled. Train timetables are being regularly adjusted to respond to the evolving security situation.

On September 12, Russian forces also struck railway lines in Lutsk, Volyn region, and Fastiv in Kyiv region. Fortunately, no one was hurt during these attacks. Oleksandr Peretskovskyi condemned these acts, stating:

“Those who target passenger aircraft or conduct 'safari' attacks on civilian trains will not end well.”

He also called for decisive action from international partners, stressing that

“any strike near borders or diplomatic trains is absolutely unacceptable.”

The security situation on Ukraine’s railways remains highly volatile. Ukrzaliznytsia continues to implement enhanced safety protocols and adapt schedules to safeguard travelers amid this ongoing conflict. These deliberate attacks on civilian transport highlight the increasing dangers faced by those traveling by rail during wartime and the urgent need for coordinated protective measures.

As the situation escalates, it's crucial to understand the broader implications of these attacks on civilian trains. Recently, another incident occurred when a passenger train traveling between Kharkiv and Izium was targeted by a Russian drone, resulting in injuries to seven individuals. For more details on this alarming trend of attacks on railway infrastructure, you can read about the recent drone strike on the Kharkiv-Izium train.