Train derails in Russia after bridge collapse, killing seven and injuring 30

Moscow: At least seven people have died and 30 others have been injured after a passenger train derailed in western Russia late on Saturday, following the collapse of a railway bridge.

The incident occurred in the Bryansk region, which borders Ukraine, and has been described by Russian officials as the result of “illegal interference.”

According to a statement from Moscow Railways, the bridge was damaged due to “unauthorised interference in transport operations,” although no further details were provided. Russia’s federal road agency, Rosavtodor, confirmed that the collapsed bridge spanned the railway line on which the train was travelling.

Photographs released by official channels show the wreckage of passenger carriages scattered among the debris of the fallen bridge, with parts of the train visibly torn apart. Additional video footage circulating on social media appears to show vehicles narrowly avoiding the bridge moments before it gave way.

Bryansk Governor Alexander Bogomaz confirmed the casualties and stated that emergency crews and local authorities were actively responding at the scene. Among the injured were two children, he said, and efforts were underway to provide full support to the victims.

While Russian officials have yet to identify those responsible, past railway incidents have led to accusations against pro-Ukrainian saboteurs. However, these claims are often difficult to verify independently due to the limited details released.