Russia Strikes Ukraine Railways, 5 Injured in Poltava Attack

Poltava, Ukraine – In the latest escalation of the ongoing conflict, Russian forces have attacked railway infrastructure in Ukraine’s central Poltava region, wounding five people, Ukrainian officials confirmed on Thursday. The attacks highlight the continuing pressure on Ukraine’s transportation networks and the risks posed to civilians in areas far from the frontline.

In the Myrhorod district, one person was injured and fires broke out following the attack, regional governor Volodymyr Kohut reported on the Telegram messaging app. According to Ukrainian authorities, the strike caused significant disruption to the local railway system, temporarily cutting power to several stations. Passenger trains faced delays of up to three hours, leaving many commuters stranded and disrupting the daily flow of goods and travel in the region.

Stay informed with the latest news. Follow DXB News Network on WhatsApp Channel 

Ukrzaliznytsia, Ukraine’s state railway operator, confirmed the attack affected multiple stations, emphasizing that crews worked urgently to restore electricity and ensure trains could run safely. The company warned that repeated attacks on railway lines not only delay passenger services but also pose risks to critical supply chains that deliver food, fuel, and essential goods across the country.

Later in the evening, another drone attack struck the Poltava region, this time targeting a fuel station. Emergency services reported a fire and four more injuries resulting from the attack. Officials urged residents in nearby areas to stay vigilant and avoid affected sites until the situation was fully under control.

The Ukrainian air force said it successfully intercepted a majority of the drones launched by Russia. Out of 75 drones aimed at various Ukrainian targets, the air force shot down 48. In addition, 26 drone strikes hit six locations across the country. Authorities stressed that these attacks were designed to damage infrastructure and create panic among civilians. Despite Ukraine’s defensive measures, the persistent drone attacks continue to threaten safety and daily life.

Russian strikes on Ukrainian railways have been increasingly frequent over the past several months. Key railway hubs in the Kharkiv and Donetsk regions have been targeted repeatedly, with similar attacks also reported in Kirovohrad. These strikes have disrupted not only passenger services but also the transport of military and humanitarian supplies, placing additional strain on Ukrainian logistics networks.

The attacks underscore the strategic importance of Ukraine’s railway system. Railways serve as vital arteries for the movement of people, goods, and military equipment. Disruptions can have cascading effects, slowing evacuation efforts in conflict zones and delaying delivery of fuel, food, and medical supplies to communities in need.

Experts say the targeting of infrastructure is a deliberate tactic designed to weaken Ukraine’s economy and morale. Railways are particularly vulnerable because they are concentrated, fixed targets that are difficult to defend completely. Ukrainian authorities, however, are responding with reinforced air defense systems and emergency response plans to mitigate the impact of such attacks.

Local residents have expressed concern and frustration as repeated strikes interrupt daily life. Commuters face delays, families worry about access to essential supplies, and businesses struggle with logistical disruptions. Despite these challenges, many communities continue to show resilience, supporting each other during these uncertain times.

Poltava’s regional government has called for heightened vigilance and coordinated response measures to protect civilians and infrastructure. Emergency services have increased readiness to respond to fires, injuries, and other consequences of the attacks. The government is also coordinating with Ukrzaliznytsia and the Ukrainian military to restore railway operations quickly and safely.

International observers and humanitarian organizations have repeatedly warned that attacks on civilian infrastructure are not only a strategic threat but also a human concern. Ensuring safe travel, protecting energy and fuel supplies, and safeguarding civilians are critical priorities in regions affected by conflict.

Ukraine’s railway system, despite repeated attacks, continues to function under challenging conditions. Ukrzaliznytsia workers, emergency crews, and local authorities are working tirelessly to repair damage, reroute services, and provide updates to passengers. In addition to addressing immediate disruptions, officials are implementing long-term measures to improve the resilience of the railway network against future attacks.

The repeated targeting of Poltava and other regions serves as a reminder of the persistent dangers faced by civilians far from the frontline. It also highlights the importance of air defense systems, rapid response teams, and community awareness in reducing casualties and damage. Ukrainian forces continue to adapt and improve defensive measures to protect both citizens and critical infrastructure.

In summary, the attacks on Poltava’s railway infrastructure and fuel stations have injured five people and caused significant disruption to transportation and daily life. Ukrainian authorities are responding swiftly, restoring power, controlling fires, and ensuring the safety of residents. The air force’s interception of most drones demonstrates Ukraine’s growing capacity to defend against attacks, though risks remain high.

As Russia continues to target railways and other critical infrastructure, the resilience of Ukraine’s communities, emergency services, and transportation networks remains vital. Officials emphasize the need for vigilance, preparedness, and cooperation to protect civilians and maintain essential services despite ongoing threats.