From January to March 2026, Russia launched 541 strikes against Ukraine’s railway infrastructure, resulting in substantial damage and financial losses for Ukrzaliznytsia, the national railway operator.
According to a statement from the company, these attacks accounted for nearly half of all strikes recorded in 2025, damaging 1,718 railway facilities. During this period, 28 railway workers, including engineers and conductors, sustained injuries while performing their duties.
The ongoing assaults, coupled with rising energy costs, led to an estimated loss of approximately 7.9 billion UAH for the company. In the first quarter of 2026, freight transport volumes decreased by 6.4%, totaling 34.8 million tons compared to the previous year. This decline was attributed to strikes on port infrastructure and industrial facilities, as well as issues with electricity supply that temporarily halted operations at various metallurgical and mining enterprises. Additionally, severe winter weather exacerbated the situation.
Passenger traffic for long-distance routes fell by 10%, reaching 5.8 million travelers, as railway operators were compelled to adjust or shorten train routes due to the ongoing bombardments.
Further complicating matters, fuel prices surged amid regional conflicts, with the cost of diesel rising nearly 50% in March. Electricity tariffs also increased during this period.
Despite these challenges, Ukrzaliznytsia maintained stable passenger and freight tariffs to ensure accessibility for travelers and support domestic businesses during this difficult time.
Ukrzaliznytsia faces severe financial losses due to ongoing Russian attacks on railway infrastructure, with significant impacts on freight and passenger transport in early 2026. The company reported a loss of approximately 7.9 billion UAH amid rising operational costs and decreased transport volumes.