Experts of the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) note that the 30-kilometer "tsar-train" between Olenivka and Volnovakha in the occupied Donetsk region can be built as a defensive line against possible Ukrainian offensives.
According to a report by ISW and DeepState, an analysis of satellite images from May 10, 2023 and February 6 and 10, 2024 shows that over the past nine months, Russian troops have built a long line of wagons from Olenivka to Volnovakha.
According to DeepState, more than 2,100 freight cars are included in this "king-train". Assembly of this train reportedly began in July 2023. It is assumed that the occupiers can use it as a defensive line against further Ukrainian attacks.
It is noted that this railway line is located about six kilometers from the front line, which, according to ISW, runs southeast of Novomykhailivka at its closest point. It is located on a section of the front that was relatively calm when the Russian troops began the construction of the "tsar-train".
Experts note that Russian forces have recently made some territorial gains in the area, but also suggest that "the Russians may have other motives for assembling this train."
