WEBDESK: At least seven people have died and dozens were injured after a passenger train derailed in Russia’s Bryansk region, close to the border with Ukraine. The accident happened when a bridge suddenly collapsed onto the railway tracks, causing the train – traveling from Klimovo to Moscow – to go off track.
Local authorities confirmed that one of the victims was the train’s driver. More than 44 people, including three children, were taken to the hospital. One child is in critical condition, according to regional officials. Rescue teams rushed to the scene, with about 180 emergency workers involved in the operation.
Emergency responders were engaged in search-and-rescue operations well into the night, attempting to locate any remaining passengers trapped inside the mangled carriages. Temporary shelters were established at a local school in Vygonichi to accommodate the displaced, the RIA news agency reported.
Russia’s national railway company initially suggested that the bridge collapse may have been caused by “illegal interference,” possibly pointing to sabotage.
“The bridge collapsed as a result of an illegal interference in the operation of transport,” said Moscow Railway in a statement on Telegram.
However, that statement was later removed, and officials have not yet confirmed the exact cause. An investigation is currently underway.
The Bryansk region in Russia has seen increased tensions and cross-border incidents since the conflict with Ukraine began over three years ago. These ongoing tensions have raised questions about the security of infrastructure near the war zone.
Governor Alexander Bogomaz expressed deep sorrow over the loss of life and injuries, and stated that full support would be given to the families affected.
The derailment occurred just ahead of high-level diplomatic engagements, with Ukraine reportedly withholding commitment to scheduled peace talks until reviewing Moscow’s proposals. Meanwhile, a senior US senator warned that Russia could face intensified sanctions if tensions further escalate.
Security has been tightened in the Bryansk region in recent months following a series of incidents, including drone strikes and reported sabotage attempts linked to the conflict.
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