Ukraine Begins Construction of New European-Standard Rail Link to Poland

Ukraine has officially started construction of a European-standard railway line connecting the country with Poland. The project, announced by Ukraine’s Minister for Community and Territorial Development, Oleksiy Kuleba, is a key step in strengthening cross-border transport and boosting regional connectivity.

The railway line, approximately 80 kilometers long, is financed by the European Union, with an initial grant of €73.5 million. It will link the border with Ukraine’s existing rail network, providing a seamless connection to European-standard infrastructure and improving trade and mobility between Ukraine and Poland.

“This railway will make the movement of goods and people faster and more efficient,” said Kuleba. “It is a vital step toward closer regional cooperation and stronger ties with European markets.”

Building on Previous Success

This is the second European-standard rail segment in Ukraine. The first segment, completed last year, connected Ukraine’s southwestern rail network directly to the European Union, demonstrating how quickly EU-supported infrastructure projects can deliver tangible results.

Strategic Importance for Central Europe

The new line strengthens trade corridors and regional connectivity, benefiting Poland and other Central European countries by improving access to Ukrainian markets. Future plans may include extending the network toward the Black Sea coast, further linking Ukraine’s ports to European-standard rail infrastructure.

A Symbol of Cooperation

While Ukraine leads the construction, the project highlights the close partnership between Poland, Ukraine, and the EU. It demonstrates how coordinated infrastructure development and shared investment can deliver significant economic and strategic benefits for the region.

“This railway is more than infrastructure; it is a symbol of regional cooperation, resilience, and growth,” Kuleba added. “Together with our Polish and European partners, we are building a stronger, more connected Central Europe.”