A better EU-Ukraine connectivity also passes through more efficient freight transport networks. A key solution for this development is putting more semi-trailers on rail, which is what East-West Intermodal Logistics recently did with a new service. “There is growing interest in rail solutions for transporting semi-trailers from Ukraine to Europe, as driver shortages and war-related uncertainties have increased”, said Alexandra Mirzojeva, Strategic Project Lead at the company.
EWIL launched a new connection between its terminal in Fényeslitke, Hungary, to Lviv, Ukraine, just a couple of weeks ago. Given the current situation in Ukraine, these initiatives come with some difficulties. “Organising shipments under conditions of constant attacks and damaged infrastructure was the most demanding aspect”, Mirzojeva explained.
Despite these challenges, the service, operated through a partnership with Ukrainian Railways and its Polish branch UZ Cargo Poland, provides Lviv with a connection to Hungary and then the rest of Europe. And this is just the beginning, it seems. “We plan to expand this service to additional cities in Ukraine as demand develops”, she added.
‘All terminals should be equipped’
Mirzojeva also analysed what needs to be done to make this sector even more popular. “Three key elements are essential: competitive pricing, supportive policies and terminal capabilities”, she pointed out. The first two are needed to make rail financially competitive with other modes, especially road freight. Whether it is governmental subsidies or stricter emission standards, there are plenty of initiatives that could improve the situation.
Regarding terminals, “Hungary already has a strong foundation”, Mirzojeva said, “several intermodal terminals operate efficiently”. However, there remains room for improvement, especially in the context of semi-trailer transport. “All terminals along the route should be equipped to handle both craneable and non-craneable semi-trailers”. This factor is “crucial for smooth and efficient intermodal operations”, she concluded.
Chop-Uzhhorod line
These links have now been facilitated by the construction of the Chop-Uzhhorod standard gauge line, which connects Ukraine to its southeastern neighbours. This 22-kilometre railway, opened in September 2025, is the first section of the standard gauge line which will lead all the way to Lviv and should be ready in the next couple of years.