Wednesday, August 21, 2024 As Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarks on his upcoming visit to Ukraine aboard the luxury train known as Train Force One, the world watches with bated breath. This isn’t just any diplomatic mission—it’s a journey through a war-torn nation that has captured global attention. Yet, the significance of this journey extends beyond diplomacy; it sends a powerful message to the world, particularly to tourists, that Ukraine, despite the ongoing conflict, remains a destination where safety and security are being prioritized.
When PM Modi steps aboard Train Force One, he will join a list of world leaders who have taken this high-stakes journey through Ukraine. The train, which covers nearly 20 hours of travel—10 hours each way—through a country devastated by war, is not just a mode of transport. It’s a symbol of “Iron Diplomacy,” a term coined by Alexander Kamyshin, the CEO of Ukraine’s railway company, Ukrzaliznytsia.
Since the Russian invasion began, flying into Kyiv has been impossible due to the closure of airports and the dangerous conditions on the roads. Train Force One has become the safest and most reliable means for global leaders to enter and exit Ukraine. This train is no ordinary vehicle.
It was originally designed for tourists visiting Crimea, boasting wood-paneled cabins, executive-level amenities, and a reputation for comfort and safety. Now repurposed for critical diplomatic missions, Train Force One has carried high-profil.