Kyiv–Bucharest via Ungheni: new friendship train strengthens ties between Ukraine, Moldova, Romania

A symbolic but historically significant step today was taken in the relations between Ukraine, Moldova and Romania - the launch of the direct Kyiv-Bucharest train, which runs via Ungheni. The event marks not only a new international transport route, but also a concrete demonstration of regional solidarity and cooperation in the face of current geopolitical challenges, according to the foreign ministers of the three neighboring countries.

Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha has conveyed a message of gratitude and hope, highlighting the importance of this link in strengthening the partnership among the three countries.

"Today, despite another night of massive Russian attacks against Ukraine, together with Oana Toiu and Mihai Popsoi, we mark an important step in consolidating the special partnership between Ukraine, Romania and Moldova. The direct Kyiv-Bucharest train has commenced its service. This connection is more than a transport route - it is a clear manifestation of our determination to build new friendship bridges and bring our peoples closer," said the Ukrainian minister.

Sybiha noted that this initiative strengthens the Odesa Triangle cooperation format, aimed at enhancing regional integration, mobility and economic ties among the three states. He added that the project was proof of unity and resilience in the face of the Russian aggression. The minister also thanked the Ukrainian Railways (Ukrzaliznytsia) employees for their courage and dedication, ensuring rail transport even under difficult war conditions.

"Our strength truly lies in our people," Sybiha added, thanking all partners of Romania and Moldova for their collaboration.

For her part, Oana Toiu, Romania's Minister of Foreign Affairs, emphasized the symbolic and pragmatic dimensions of this new connection.

"Despite this new brutal attack against Ukraine, this railway route represents another important step in our relations, proving how determined we are to stay united, in solidarity, to strengthen cooperation and enhance connectivity. The link between Kyiv and Bucharest, through Moldova, will improve integration, mobility, and economic relations within the so-called Odesa Triangle. May it soon become a concrete precursor of lasting peace that our region deserves and the prosperity it can bring," Oana Toiu noted.

Moldova’s Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs Mihai Popsoi also welcomed the launch of the route, emphasizing that it would bring the citizens of the three countries closer and facilitate cooperation in economic, tourism and cultural fields.

The Kyiv-Ungheni-Bucharest railway route represents a new strategic link in the chain of regional connectivity, at a time when solidarity among the three countries takes on special importance in the current geopolitical context.

The international train IR 99/401 will depart from Kyiv at 06:30 and arrive in Bucharest the next morning at 06:47.

Additionally, the international train IR 402/100 will depart from Bucharest Nord in the evening at 19:10 and arrive in Kyiv the next day at 19:34. According to the Romanian Railways (CFR), the price of one travel ticket on the Bucharest Nord - Kyiv route, in a sleeper car (with four beds in a cabin), is 73.4 euros.