Explosions Cause Collapse of Two Bridges in Russia, Killing Seven

MOSCOW, Russia – At least seven people died and dozens more were injured after two bridges collapsed in separate incidents in western Russia overnight. The collapses occurred on June 1, 2025, amid ongoing tensions related to the war in Ukraine.

The first incident took place in the Bryansk region, which borders Ukraine, when a highway bridge fell on a passenger train carrying 388 individuals. Russian Railways reported that the driver of the train was among those killed. Governor Alexander Bogomaz indicated that heavy trucks were also involved in the collapse.

Hours later, a second bridge collapsed in the nearby Kursk region, derailing a freight train. Acting Governor Alexander Khinshtein confirmed that the explosion caused significant damage and sparked a fire, but no casualties were reported from this incident.

Russia’s Investigative Committee stated that explosions caused the collapses and announced an investigation into potential terrorism. However, they later edited social media posts to remove specific references to “explosions,” drawing scrutiny and speculation.

Rescue workers are currently clearing debris at both locations and transferring injured individuals to hospitals in Moscow. Eyewitness videos circulated on social media showed passengers evacuating mangled train carriages in the dark.

The Russian authorities have linked the incidents to possible sabotage, with accusations directed at Ukrainian forces. Ukrainian military intelligence mentioned an explosion that caused a military train to derail in the Zaporizhzhia region, but did not claim responsibility for the bridge incidents.

The situation has heightened tensions ahead of planned peace talks between Russia and Ukraine, which the U.S. is facilitating. Both sides have exchanged accusations of targeting civilians and infrastructure, intensifying the urgency for diplomatic resolution.

As clean-up continues and investigations unfold, Russian President Vladimir Putin has been briefed on the situation, with officials pledging a thorough examination of the events.