Zelensky Warns Europe of Drone Attacks After Russian Strike Injures 30 on Ukrainian Train, Hits Gas Facilities

Russian Drone Strike on Ukrainian Railway Station Injures Dozens

A Russian drone strike on a railway station in the Sumy region of northeastern Ukraine on Saturday, October 4, 2025, injured at least 30 people, including three children and a railway employee. President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the attack as a deliberate act of terror targeting civilians.

Details of the Attack

The attack targeted the Shostka railway station, approximately 50 kilometers from the Russian border. According to Ukrainian officials, a "double tap" strike occurred, with the initial drone hitting a local train and a second drone striking a train bound for Kyiv while evacuation efforts were underway. This tactic, aiming to target first responders, was condemned by Andrii Sybiha, Ukraine's top diplomat, as one of the most brutal Russian tactics.

Oleh Hryhorov, the regional governor, reported that two trains were hit and posted images showing a passenger carriage engulfed in flames. The strike also caused power outages in Shostka and surrounding areas. Oleksandr Pertsovskyi, head of Ukrainian Railways, stated the attack served no military purpose and was designed to sow panic, aiming to isolate frontline communities.

Casualties and Response

Initial reports indicated at least 30 injuries, but later reports confirmed one fatality: a 71-year-old man found dead in a wrecked train carriage. Emergency services responded to the scene, and medical care was provided to the injured. Zelensky called for action from the West, urging them to translate their strong statements into concrete support for Ukraine.

"The Russians could not have been unaware that they were striking civilians. And this is terror the world must not ignore," - Volodymyr Zelensky on X.

Escalation of Attacks on Infrastructure

Russia has intensified its attacks on Ukraine's railway network in recent weeks, which is crucial for military transport. Moscow has also increased strikes on Ukraine's power grid as winter approaches. Prior to the railway station attack, Russian forces launched a significant strike on Ukrainian gas facilities on Friday, described as the largest since the 2022 invasion. According to a Ukrainian energy firm, strikes damaged energy facilities near Chernihiv, causing blackouts affecting around 50,000 households.

Zelensky's top aide, Andriy Yermak, accused Russia of waging "war against civilians." The EU has also condemned the attack. "The shocking scenes emerging from Shostka railway station highlight Russia’s reckless and continued willingness to target civilians," European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen wrote on X.