Russian Drones Target Kherson Public Transport

Russian Drones Intensify Attacks on Kherson Public Transport

Russian forces have intensified drone attacks on public transport in Kherson, Ukraine, resulting in civilian casualties and significant damage to infrastructure. Since the beginning of 2024, 27 buses have been hit, leading to the deaths of three transport workers and injuries to eight others. This escalation targets a city that remains under Ukrainian control but is frequently shelled from Russian-held territories across the Dnipro River.

The attacks, which began in 2023, have increasingly focused on public transport vehicles, according to Kherson's municipal transport company. This year alone, 21 trolleybuses and eight buses operated by the municipal company, along with six privately operated buses, have sustained damage. Drivers report near-daily incidents, with some drones utilizing advanced fiber optic cables, making them harder to detect with existing equipment.

Local authorities have implemented protective measures, including anti-drone nets over busy streets and issuing drivers with helmets, bullet-proof vests, and drone detectors. However, the effectiveness of these detectors is limited against newer drone technologies. Despite the risks, transport workers continue operations, citing a commitment to providing essential services for the estimated 65,000 residents remaining in Kherson.