Russian Investigator Labels Bridge Collapses as 'Terrorist Attacks' in New Probe

The Russian Investigative Committee announced on Sunday that it has classified the recent bridge collapses in the border regions of Bryansk and Kursk as terrorist attacks. According to committee spokesperson Svetlana Petrenko, the Main Investigative Directorate initiated criminal cases concerning the explosions on the railway lines in both regions, emphasizing that the incidents are being treated as acts of terrorism.

Authorities reported that two separate explosions occurred overnight, each resulting in the collapse of key bridge structures. The blasts not only disrupted critical rail infrastructure but also led to the derailment of trains and significant casualties.

"On May 31, 2025, at 10:50 p.m. (0750 GMT), an explosion caused the collapse of a road bridge structure on the Vygonichi-Pilshino railway section in the Bryansk region," the committee detailed in its official statement. The resulting damage triggered a passenger train derailment. The train was carrying 388 people at the time of the incident. Bryansk Governor Alexander Bogomaz confirmed that the accident claimed the lives of seven individuals and left 66 injured.

In a separate event, another explosion targeted a railway bridge in the neighboring Kursk region. The blast occurred as a train was crossing, causing the locomotive and several cars to plunge onto the road below. The train's driver and two assistants sustained injuries during the crash, according to investigators.

The incidents have raised concerns over security along Russia’s western border, particularly in the midst of ongoing regional tensions. Law enforcement and emergency teams continue to operate at both sites, working to clear debris, rescue survivors, and restore vital rail services. Officials have vowed to pursue those responsible for what they are now treating as deliberate acts intended to destabilize transportation networks and endanger civilian lives.