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Zelensky tasks PM with creating free transportation program in Kyiv as Russia’s bridge attacks hinder travel
President Volodymyr Zelensky has asked Prime Minister Serhii Koretsyi to devise a free overground transport programme for Kyiv, to help residents travel if Russian attacks disrupt the metro or close bridges. The proposal responds to growing difficulty crossing the Dnipro and maintaining movement around the capital.
Details, including the number of vehicles and possible traffic changes, are being worked out, with a presentation expected as early as 9 November. Russia has targeted bridges since early October; the Northern Bridge was hit again during an overnight attack on 6–7 November, when 36 ballistic missiles were launched at Kyiv and the surrounding region. Damage and air-raid alerts have at times stopped vehicle and train traffic, leaving people to cross bridges on foot.
In short
- Zelensky wants free overground transport in Kyiv during disruptions.
- Officials are working out vehicle numbers and traffic changes.
- Bridge attacks have disrupted travel across the Dnipro.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
A free overground transport programme could help residents reach work, healthcare and essential services when attacks disrupt the metro or bridge crossings. In a city facing repeated interruptions, it could also ease the burden on people who cannot safely or practically make long journeys on foot, while showing that public authorities are preparing for emergencies.
The case against
Providing free transport across a large city could require substantial vehicles, staff and funding at a time when resources may be needed for defence, repairs and other urgent services. Extra traffic might also worsen congestion or complicate movement around damaged bridges, so planners would need to weigh the programme’s reach and safety against its cost and operational demands.
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