Russian drones target Kherson buses: three bus drivers killed this year

Russian drones systematically attack Kherson's public transport, killing three transport workers this year. Despite the deadly threat, bus drivers continue their work to ensure the city's residents have access to essential services. Kherson's bus routes have become one of Ukraine's most dangerous routes.

In Kherson, Ukraine, public transport has become a war zone. Russian drones target the city's bus routes, killing three transport workers so far this year. Despite the constant threat of death, drivers continue their work day after day, knowing that city residents depend on transport to manage their daily lives.

Drivers working under threat of death

Kherson's bus drivers work under conditions that could be described as one of Ukraine's most dangerous workplaces. Drone attacks have become a daily occurrence, and drivers must simultaneously navigate the bus and watch the skies. Some drivers have described learning to recognize the sound of drones so they can brake more quickly when needed and guide passengers to shelter.

The loss of transport workers has been a heavy blow to the community. The three workers killed this year were people who consciously chose to continue working despite the danger – largely because someone has to. Kherson is a city where some of its residents cannot manage without public transport.

Civilians depend on buses

Kherson has remained close to the front lines even after Ukrainian forces retook the city in November 2022. Russian forces are positioned on the opposite bank of the river and bomb the city regularly. Nevertheless, thousands of civilians have remained in the city, needing transport to hospitals, markets, and other places.

Bus drivers and the transport company do everything they can to keep routes operating, adjusting schedules and routes according to air raid alerts. It is a constant adaptation to a life-threatening environment, where every trip carries a risk that is hard to imagine in peacetime.