Since the beginning of the Russian attack, the humanitarian situation in Ukraine has been worsening daily. To supply people in the war zone with essential goods and bring refugees to safety, numerous transport companies and logistics providers have launched their own aid initiatives. For example, Deutsche Bahn has built a network across road and rail to transport relief supplies from Germany directly into Ukraine.

Thousands of tons of food, drinking water, and sanitary products are being transported into the country by truck and freight train. Roads and border crossings between Poland and Ukraine are overloaded, and there are reports of a shortage of truck drivers. Once again, rail freight proves to be a key support in times of crisis, especially over long distances and across borders where it can play to its strengths. Up to 52 containers can be loaded onto a single train—forming a “rail bridge with relief supplies,” as DB describes it. Donations are collected in Germany by truck, packed into containers, and then transported via the European rail network by DB Cargo as freight trains into Ukraine (see infographic). For donors—ideally companies providing large-scale contributions—the transport is free of charge. In the near future, this logistics network is also expected to include individual donations. SBB Cargo International and other rail freight companies are also organizing aid transports to the Ukrainian border, as are numerous logistics providers.

Fast and uncomplicated help is also available for people who have to flee the war. Whether on trains and buses from Poland to Germany or within local public transport in Germany: by providing free mobility, transport companies are trying to ease the suffering of refugees. This is based on a special self-understanding as an essential public service sector. Ultimately, this active support is only possible thanks to the commitment of many people. These include not only employees in the transport and logistics industry who are involved both privately and professionally, but also countless volunteers. They all contribute their expertise, energy, and dedication in the service of humanity.