Journey by Rail: The Unseen Side of World Leaders Visiting Ukraine

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has transformed VIP travel with world leaders relying on lengthy train rides to visit Kyiv. These journeys, although arduous, offer an intimate glimpse into the resilience of Ukraine and the leaders' dedication to supporting its fight.

 

In the nearly three years since Russia launched its invasion of Ukraine, high-profile visitors such as Ursula von der Leyen, the European Union’s president, have adapted to the lengthy 10-hour train rides to Kyiv. Deprived of sleep due to the relentless rattling of the tracks, von der Leyen, who has made eight trips to Ukraine since early 2022, sympathizes with fellow dignitaries like U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken, noting their shared fatigue during engagements.

Since conventional flights to Ukraine have been suspended for security reasons, the train system has emerged as the primary transportation method throughout the war-affected nation. Millions of Ukrainians have traversed this network, often spending extended periods in sleeper cabins. In response to the needs of visiting dignitaries, Ukrzaliznytsia, the Ukrainian railway, has upgraded its fleet to include V.I.P. cars featuring luxurious sleeping quarters, conference spaces, and kitchens manned by attendants ready to provide meals.

For instance, during a surprise February visit to President Volodymyr Zelensky, President Biden utilized the rail service, taking time to refine his speech en route. This shift in travel dynamics underscores the unique challenges and resilience faced by Ukraine and its supporters as they navigate an ongoing crisis.