Russia’s Railway War: A New Phase in Ukraine Conflict
The conflict in Ukraine has entered a new, troubling phase, marked by a sustained and escalating campaign by Russia to cripple Ukraine’s railway network. What began as strategic targeting has evolved into a systematic effort to disrupt civilian logistics, sow panic, and exert economic pressure. This isn’t simply about military supply lines anymore. it’s a direct assault on the everyday lives of Ukrainians.
From Strategic Targets to Civilian Disruption
Initially, the focus appeared to be on hindering the delivery of Western arms. However, Ukrainian officials and railway authorities now report a deliberate shift towards targeting the broader civilian infrastructure. Oleksandr Pertsovskyi, head of Ukrzaliznytsia, the Ukrainian railway operator, has described the attacks as “systematic,” noting that Russia is leveraging its increased drone capacity to strike a wider range of targets, even individual locomotives.
This change in tactics reflects a strategy of attrition. Rather than seeking immediate, large-scale disruption, Russia aims to gradually degrade Ukraine’s transport capabilities. This approach is less costly for the attacker, but places a significant burden on Ukraine’s resources for defense and repair.
Record Attacks in 2025
The intensification of these attacks reached a peak in 2025, with the number of strikes exceeding the combined totals for 2023 and 2024. Between August 1, 2025, and January 28, 2026, a staggering 895 attacks were recorded against railway infrastructure, including stations, tracks, locomotives, and freight cars. These attacks are not isolated incidents; they are a daily occurrence across the country, particularly in regions near the front lines.
Recent incidents underscore the severity of the situation. A passenger train was struck by drones in the Kharkiv region, resulting in casualties. The Synelnykove railway station in the Dnipropetrovsk Oblast was hit seven times in 24 hours, damaging electric trains, freight wagons, and critical infrastructure. These attacks are explicitly characterized by Ukrainian officials as acts of terror against the civilian population.
The Importance of Rail in Ukraine
Ukraine’s reliance on rail transport has increased dramatically since the start of the invasion, due to the suspension of civilian air travel and challenges with road transport. The railway network serves as the primary artery for both passenger and freight transport, making it a vital component of the country’s economy and the movement of people. Disrupting this network has far-reaching consequences, impacting everything from internal displacement to the delivery of essential supplies.
Adapting and Resisting
Despite the relentless attacks, Ukrzaliznytsia is working to maintain operations through enhanced security protocols, route adjustments, and continuous repairs. However, the sheer volume of attacks presents a formidable challenge. The Ukrainian government views the attacks as a deliberate attempt to weaponize transport infrastructure, similar to the ongoing strikes against power plants and the electrical grid.
Future Trends and Implications
Increased Drone Warfare
The current trend suggests a continued reliance on drone warfare, with Russia likely to expand its use of cheaper, readily available drones like Shaheds to target a wider range of infrastructure. This will necessitate ongoing investment in air defense systems and counter-drone technologies.
Focus on Logistics Hubs
Expect increased targeting of key railway junctions and logistics hubs. These nodes are critical for the efficient movement of goods and people, and disrupting them would have a significant impact on Ukraine’s ability to sustain its war effort and maintain its economy.
Cyberattacks as a Complementary Tactic
Alongside physical attacks, cyberattacks targeting railway signaling systems and control centers could become more frequent. These attacks could disrupt train schedules, cause accidents, and further exacerbate the challenges facing the Ukrainian railway network.
FAQ
Q: Why is Russia targeting Ukraine’s railways?
A: Initially to disrupt arms deliveries, but now as well to damage the economy, create panic, and exert pressure on the civilian population.
Q: How is Ukraine responding to these attacks?
A: By enhancing security measures, adjusting routes, and conducting continuous repairs.
Q: What is the impact of these attacks on civilians?
A: They disrupt travel, hinder the delivery of essential goods, and create a climate of fear.
Q: Is the use of drones a new development in this conflict?
A: While drones have been used previously, the scale and frequency of attacks have increased significantly, reflecting Russia’s growing drone capabilities.
Did you know? The number of attacks on Ukrainian railway infrastructure in 2025 surpassed the combined total for the previous two years.
Pro Tip: Staying informed about the latest developments in the conflict is crucial for understanding the evolving security landscape.
Further reading on the ongoing conflict can be found at La Libre Belgique.
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