Russia again strikes Ukrzaliznytsia diesel locomotive with drone during shunting operations, no casualties

On Thursday, Russian forces targeted a diesel locomotive in the process of shunting operations in a region similar to where an enemy strike on a passenger train locomotive earlier killed the driver and his assistant, Ukrzaliznytsia Chairman Oleksandr Pertsovsky reported on Suspilne Studio television. The second attack on a diesel locomotive carrying out shunting operations resulted in no casualties, as the crew had been warned in advance.

Pertsovsky explained that the enemy's strategy involves identifying a designated corridor through which enemy Shahed drones could penetrate, guided by a video camera allowing the pilot to clearly see their target. The objective was not merely to destroy the locomotive but to hit the cab directly. The company is collaborating with regional military administrations to arrange bus transportation and notify partner countries of missed onward connections, enabling passengers to transfer to alternative routes.

Pertsovsky emphasized that train travelers, especially those approaching areas near the front line, must remain vigilant. Every sleeping car includes evacuation instructions; passengers must adhere to the crew's instructions precisely. On August 13, a jet-powered drone struck a passenger train locomotive in the Odesa region, claiming the lives of the driver and his assistant, according to preliminary reports.

Despite the threat, the locomotive crew successfully evacuated the 340 passengers, including 67 children, ensuring their safety. The Odesa Regional Military Administration's head, Oleh Kiper, confirmed the number of passengers and train crew members. The Prosecutor General's Office subsequently launched a pretrial investigation into war crimes resulting in fatalities under Part 2 of Article 438 of Ukraine's Criminal Code.