Passenger Trains from Europe to Reach Uzhhorod Directly as Electrification Between Uzhhorod and Chop is Completed

Completion of Electrification on the Uzhhorod-Chop Rail Segment

According to УНІАН — Туризм: The 22-kilometer stretch of European-gauge railway connecting Uzhhorod and Chop has now been fully electrified. This milestone paves the way for electric passenger trains traveling from Hungary, Austria, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic to operate directly to Uzhhorod starting in 2026, eliminating the need for transfers. Plans are underway to extend electrification from Chop to the Hungarian border, with completion targeted by the end of 2026.

This electrification project is co-funded with a total budget of 1.3 billion UAH. Half of the funding comes from a European Union grant under the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF Transport) program, while the remaining half is covered by the Ukrainian state budget and the railway company’s own resources. In 2026, 285 million UAH has been allocated from the state budget to support the project.

Advancements in Freight Transport and Infrastructure Upgrades

In addition, Ukraine and Spain signed an agreement in March 2026 to collaborate on an infrastructure project aimed at enhancing freight transport across the border. Meanwhile, since September 2025, direct passenger trains have been running from Uzhhorod via the European gauge line to Bratislava, Vienna, and Budapest.

Ukrzaliznytsia’s press service stated: "This means electric passenger trains from Hungary, Austria, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic will technically be able to run straight to Uzhhorod. For passengers, this translates to shorter travel times, and for the railway, reduced operational costs."

Further developments include the expected completion of the European-gauge railway segment from Lviv to the Polish border between Sknyliv and Mostyska in the second quarter of 2027. The electrification between Uzhhorod and Chop represents a crucial step in modernizing Ukraine’s transport network and strengthening its connections with European countries.

Finalizing this electrification highlights Ukraine’s commitment to building a modern transportation infrastructure essential for integrating with Europe’s railway system. Beyond improving passenger accessibility, these upgrades are set to boost freight traffic, potentially benefiting the regional economy. Projects like this are anticipated to attract additional investment and reinforce Ukraine’s position in the global transport market.

As the electrification project progresses, it's important to note that the upcoming completion of the European-standard rail link from the Polish border to Lviv by 2027 will further enhance Ukraine's connectivity with its European neighbors. This development is expected to streamline both passenger and freight transport, creating more efficient travel routes across the region.