Russia builds railway from occupied Mariupol to Rostov

The Mariupol City Council reports this. 

"The invaders persist in their attempts and intentions to lay a new railway branch in the 'deep rear,' connecting Russian Rostov-on-Don with the temporarily occupied Mariupol," the City Council message states.

According to the council, the Russians initiated the construction of this railway in the fall of 2023. British intelligence, at that time, speculated that the railway might be within the reach of long-range Ukrainian weaponry.

"In early January 2024, reports surfaced of a Ukrainian military attack on a partially constructed railway bridge by Russian occupiers near the village of Hranitne. Despite this setback, Russians show determination in proceeding with the bridge construction," notes the City Council.

Additionally, the Russian army is reinforcing its presence near Mariupol, importing new units, and visibly mobilizing personnel and equipment.

"Mariupol remains a crucial logistical hub for the invaders. They are intensifying their forces here, aiming to establish it as a key transfer point for military assets between Rostov and Crimea. The remaining residents of Mariupol face ongoing danger, given the occupiers' plans to boost mobilization in temporarily occupied territories," warns Mariupol Mayor Vadym Boychenko.

• On October 2, 2023, it was revealed that the Russians are constructing a road from Rostov-on-Don to the temporarily occupied Mariupol.