A trolleybus driver who sustained critical injuries during a Russian drone attack on public transport in Kherson has tragically passed away in the hospital. Medical teams fought tirelessly to save his life, but his wounds ultimately proved fatal. Oleksandr Prokudin, the Head of the Kherson Regional Military Administration, confirmed the heartbreaking news on Saturday, April 11.
“Unfortunately, doctors were unable to save the severely injured trolleybus driver. He died in the hospital from his injuries. My deepest condolences to the relatives and loved ones of the deceased,” the regional governor stated in his official message, highlighting the profound grief felt by the local community.
The brazen attack occurred earlier that day, at approximately 3:30 PM. In a clear violation of international humanitarian law, Russian forces utilized an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) to drop an explosive device directly onto a civilian trolleybus navigating the city streets. The driver, simply performing his daily duties to keep the frontline city moving, bore the brunt of the deadly blast. This incident is not an isolated event but rather part of a chilling and systematic campaign by Russian troops stationed on the occupied left bank of the Dnipro River to terrorize the civilian population of liberated Kherson.
Since its liberation, Kherson has been subjected to relentless, daily bombardments. The use of cheap, explosive-laden drones—often First Person View (FPV) drones—to hunt down non-military targets has become a grim reality for the residents. Public transport vehicles, utility trucks, ambulances, and civilian passenger cars are frequently deliberately targeted by operators who can clearly see they are attacking non-combatants. The individuals who continue to operate public utilities and transport in Kherson are widely regarded as local heroes, risking their lives daily to ensure the survival and functionality of their battered city.
The death of the trolleybus driver underscores the severe and ongoing humanitarian crisis in Ukraine’s southern regions. As the war continues, the resilience of utility workers remains a testament to the enduring spirit of the Ukrainian people. However, the international community is repeatedly reminded of the urgent need for enhanced air defense systems and electronic warfare capabilities to shield civilian centers from this unrelenting aerial terror. Ukrainian law enforcement agencies have already launched a pre-trial investigation into the strike, documenting it as yet another blatant war crime committed by the Russian Federation.