Drone Hits Passenger Train in Kharkiv Region
A Russian drone strike caused panic on a crowded passenger train in Ukraine’s Kharkiv region, killing five people and leaving many others in shock. The attack happened while the train was stationary, making it an easy target for the drone operator.
Omar, a Ukrainian military officer who was traveling on the train, said the second explosion made it clear the drone was watching the target closely. Moments later, one carriage took a direct hit and quickly burst into flames.
Passengers Flee as Fire Spreads
Smoke and fire filled the train as passengers rushed to escape. Many screamed and cried as they ran away from the burning carriages. Videos from the scene show people in deep distress, unsure where to go.
Omar urged passengers to move toward a nearby motorway. Staying close to the train was too dangerous due to the fire and risk of further strikes.
Rescue Efforts Amid Chaos
After guiding people to safety, Omar returned to the damaged train with several others. They searched each carriage to make sure no one remained inside.
During the search, Omar discovered a body while checking for survivors. In the final carriage, he found a young woman holding her baby. She was alive but terrified and frozen with fear.
“She didn’t know what to do,” Omar said. “She was shaking, but thankfully, her child was safe.”
The woman wanted to return to the train to collect her suitcase and documents. She later explained that she was traveling to the front line so her soldier husband could see their child.
National Mourning and Condemnation
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the attack, calling it an act of terrorism. The strike targeted not just civilians but also a vital part of Ukraine’s transport system.
Ukraine’s railway network remains a symbol of strength since the country’s airspace closed after Russia launched its full invasion in February 2022.
Millions depend on the 21,000 kilometre railway system for travel inside the country and to reach neighboring borders.
Rail Services Resume Despite Threats
Although Russia has attacked rail infrastructure before, Ukraine’s state rail company has kept services running under extreme conditions. Recent attacks and harsh weather have caused delays, but trains continue to operate.
Last autumn, services to Kramatorsk were suspended after the area became too dangerous due to constant aerial strikes.
On Wednesday, railway stations across Ukraine lowered flags to half mast. The national minute of silence honored the victims of the drone attack.
Despite the tragedy, train services on the Barvinkove to Chop line resumed just hours later.
