Two weeks after the first train set off, another five trains with humanitarian aid supplies are on their way to Ukraine using the DB rail aid link. Numerous companies and private individuals throughout Europe are participating in this project and have promised further donations. The logistics experts at DB Cargo, DB Schenker and DB Cargo Transa-Spedition are currently receiving numerous orders and requests for aid transports, particularly food and beverages, but also sanitary and hygiene items. Nearly 100 containers that were filled at DB collection points in collaboration with helpers from the German Federal Agency for Technical Relief (THW) are currently ready for transport via the rail aid link.
DB has set up a hotline for the rail aid link to Ukraine. People can call it to register their cargo, especially companies with items to donate and large consignments, and arrange collection. Transport is free of charge for donors until further notice. The hotline is staffed from 8 am to 4 pm on weekdays.
Containers are transferred from truck to rail in terminals like the one in Berlin. The trains travel in DB Cargo's European network via Seddin in Brandenburg to Poland and on into Ukraine.
Dr Sigrid Nikutta: "We are shocked and appalled by this war in the heart of Europe. That is why we are taking decisive action and doing what we do best: providing people with essential goods. Every container sends the message that we will not abandon the people of Ukraine. The rail aid link is working – and it can do even more. That is why we are continuing to accept humanitarian aid supplies at all times."
Dr Andrij Melnyk: "From the very first day of the Russian war of annihilation against Ukraine, I appealed to the German government to establish a supply corridor from Berlin to our homeland in order to deliver prompt assistance to my compatriots. We are very grateful to all those involved in the federal and state governments and DB for taking up this initiative and making this vital rolling rail aid link a reality. It is a symbol of Germany’s solidarity with the people of Ukraine."
Dr Volker Wissing: "It sends a powerful message when donors from the business community and civil society are able to dispatch thousands of tonnes of humanitarian aid supplies to our neighbours in need in just a few days. The logistical implementation is a huge achievement by Deutsche Bahn and its employees. We want to get this aid to where it is needed quickly and efficiently. Working with the authorities, European railways are currently proving how resilient, reliable and effective they are, even in times of major crises. They have managed to quickly transport large quantities of humanitarian aid supplies to the conflict area while also bringing many people to safety in western Europe. Every bit of help for the people of Ukraine is a sign of our determination and our strength to resist those who attack our liberal democracy."
Franziska Giffey: "Just as Berlin received international aid through the airlift almost 75 years ago, Ukraine needs our help today. The rail aid link from Berlin is a sign of our solidarity with the people of Ukraine. I would like to thank Deutsche Bahn from the bottom of my heart for what they have managed to do – as well as for their efforts on behalf of the refugees. Berlin has become a hub for Germany’s efforts to assist Ukraine, and it remains the city of freedom and solidarity."
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