Russian Drone Strike on Passenger Train in Ukraine Kills Five, Sparks Panic Among Civilians
A Russian drone attack on a passenger train in Ukraine’s northeastern Kharkov region has killed at least five people and spread fear among hundreds of civilians onboard, Ukrainian authorities have confirmed.
The incident occurred when three drones targeted a civilian train carrying 291 passengers, including women and children. One of the drones struck a passenger carriage directly, triggering a fire and causing chaos inside the train. Thick smoke quickly filled the compartment as passengers struggled to understand what was happening.
According to Ukrainian officials, the situation could have turned into a far greater tragedy if not for the quick thinking of a Ukrainian soldier identified as “Omar,” who was traveling on the train at the time. Witnesses say the soldier immediately realized the danger and instructed passengers to evacuate the train without panic. His swift action helped prevent a much higher number of casualties.
Emergency services arrived at the scene shortly after the attack, extinguishing the fire and providing medical assistance to the injured. Several passengers were treated for burns, smoke inhalation, and shock, while others were evacuated to nearby shelters. Rail officials said the damaged carriage was completely destroyed.
President Zaleski strongly condemned the attack, calling it an act of “terrorism” against civilians. In a statement, he said targeting a passenger train clearly violates international humanitarian law and shows disregard for innocent lives.
“Russia continues to strike civilian infrastructure deliberately. This was a peaceful passenger train, not a military target,” Zaleski said, adding that Ukraine’s rail system has remained a vital lifeline for civilians throughout the war, transporting people to safety and keeping essential connections running despite constant threats.
Ukraine’s national railway operator also denounced the strike, emphasizing that trains have played a crucial role in evacuations, humanitarian aid delivery, and daily civilian movement since the conflict began. The company praised the bravery of railway staff and passengers who acted calmly under extreme danger.
The attack comes amid intensified drone and missile strikes across several Ukrainian regions in recent weeks, as fighting continues with no immediate sign of de-escalation. International observers have repeatedly raised concerns about the growing risks faced by civilians as critical infrastructure increasingly comes under fire.
Investigations into the incident are ongoing, while Ukrainian authorities have urged the international community to respond firmly to what they describe as repeated attacks on civilian targets.
