The German Ambassador to Ukraine, Heiko Thomas, has officially handed over the first 13 vehicles to Ukrainian authorities aimed at repairing railway infrastructure damaged by Russian shelling. This initiative underscores Germany’s ongoing commitment to supporting Ukraine in its recovery efforts.
The vehicles are part of a broader assistance package that includes a total of 18 vehicles, 32 generators, and 18 specialized equipment units. Eleven of the vehicles will be dispatched to various regions to assist repair crews, while two will be allocated to a locomotive company for personnel transportation.
Alexey Balesta, Deputy Minister for Community and Territorial Development of Ukraine, emphasized the critical need for service vehicles due to the continuous Russian attacks. He stated, “Thanks to our partners, railway workers have received new transport that will enable them to quickly reach the sites of Russian strikes and restore damaged infrastructure efficiently.”
The introduction of these vehicles is expected to expedite the deployment of repair teams to affected areas, ensuring uninterrupted train operations and logistical capabilities across the country.
Ambassador Thomas highlighted that supporting Ukraine contributes to the integration of its railway system into the European network. He condemned Russia’s military actions, particularly attacks on infrastructure and railway workers, stating, “We firmly denounce the military crimes committed by Russia, including strikes on infrastructure and railway personnel.”
During the event, participants viewed a passenger carriage from the train “Barvinkove – Lviv – Chop,” which was destroyed by Russian kamikaze drones on January 27 in the Kharkiv region. The attack resulted in the deaths of six civilians, illustrating the daily risks faced by railway workers and passengers.
Germany has provided Ukraine with vehicles to aid in the repair of railway infrastructure damaged by Russian attacks. This support is part of a larger package aimed at enhancing operational capabilities amidst ongoing conflict.