A new train, the "Sakura," has been launched on the Kyiv–Uzhhorod route

On April 28, Ukraine launched its new flagship train, the "Sakura," on the Kyiv–Uzhhorod route. 

This was reported by the Ministry of Community and Territorial Development, noting that the project was implemented using the refurbished train set No. 81 with the support of the Japanese Embassy and the JICA agency. The train consists of the first cars from a batch of 100 units manufactured at the Kryukiv Railway Car Building Works in 2026.

 

 

 

 

 

The project has become a symbol of gratitude to the Japanese people for their assistance, which has already exceeded $15 billion. In particular, thanks to Japanese partners, the railway received 28,000 tons of rails and dozens of units of specialized equipment to upgrade tracks on key routes. Twelve of the train’s cars feature unique branding with cherry blossom petals, and passengers have access to a themed online portal, a Japanese menu, and board games.

The renewal of rolling stock and infrastructure is taking place as part of Ukraine’s emergency recovery programs amid ongoing Russian aggression. Deputy Prime Minister Oleksiy Kuleba emphasized that part of the “Sakura” route will run on Japanese rails. The launch of this train is part of a broader cooperation that encompasses projects in energy, transportation, and demining across the country.

Ukrzaliznytsia plans to receive the first Alstom UA8AC electric locomotive in the first quarter of 2027, with a total of 55 such locomotives expected to be delivered by the end of 2029.

Ukrzaliznytsia has launched online sales of discounted student tickets.