Experts from the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) note that a 30-kilometer “tsar-train” between Olenivka and Volnovakha in the occupied Donetsk region could be built as a defensive line against possible Ukrainian offensives.
According to a report by ISW and DeepState, analysis of satellite imagery from May 10, 2023, and February 6 and 10, 2024, shows that over the past nine months, Russian forces have built a long line of wagons from Olenivka to Volnovakha.
According to DeepState, this “tsar-train” includes over 2,100 freight cars. The assembly of this train reportedly began in July 2023. It is assumed that the occupiers may use it as a line of defense against further Ukrainian attacks.
It is noted that this railway line is about six kilometers from the front line, which ISW estimates runs southeast of Novomykhailivka at its closest point. It is located on a section of the front that was relatively quiet when Russian troops began 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.”.
