Russia's rail crisis: War and sanctions cripple logistics

Russia's rail network buckles under war strain and Ukrainian attacks

Russia’s rail network, once a backbone of its military logistics, now faces severe strain due to the war in Ukraine. The conflict has disrupted operations, exposed vulnerabilities, and forced the Kremlin to revive old strategies to keep trains running. With sanctions cutting off critical supplies and Ukrainian attacks targeting key routes, the system is under unprecedented pressure. Before the invasion, Russia relied heavily on its vast rail system to move troops and equipment. The network stretches 122,000 kilometres across eleven time zones, handling 80-90% of all freight. But within days of the war starting, Ukrainian forces destroyed all direct rail links with Russia by February 26, 2022, blocking a key supply route.

In the early weeks, Russian troops struggled to advance when rail support failed. Many were forced to march on foot or use trucks instead. By March 7, 2022, an armoured train marked with a large white 'Z' rolled through the occupied Ukrainian city of Melitopol, signalling Russia’s attempt to use captured rail lines for logistics.

The war has also worsened a shortage of skilled workers. Russian Railways (RZhD), a state monopoly employing around 700,000 people, now lacks enough engineers and locomotive drivers. Western sanctions have made imports of lubricants and spare parts nearly impossible, leading to delays and the cancellation of up to 50,000 trains in 2023 alone.

To protect its supply lines, Russia has revived a specialised railway troops unit. Up to 30,000 soldiers have been trained to guard tracks and repair damage. Meanwhile, Ukrainian forces continue targeting major junctions, knowing these hubs are vital for moving ammunition to the front. The rail network, once a strength for Russia, now faces constant disruption from attacks, sanctions, and labour shortages. Delays and cancellations have become common, while the military scrambles to defend its remaining routes. Without reliable rail logistics, Russia’s ability to sustain long-term operations in Ukraine grows increasingly uncertain.