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Russia's top investigative authorities have launched criminal investigations following the dual bridge collapses in the Kursk and Bryansk regions, which resulted in the deaths of seven people and injuries to at least 76 others. The incidents, which derailed both a freight train and a passenger train, occurred within hours of each other overnight.

The first collapse was reported around 11 p.m. on Saturday in the Bryansk region, where an overpass gave way as a Moscow-bound passenger train traveled beneath it. This led to the derailment of three carriages, killing seven individuals and injuring 73 more, including three critically. Local governor Alexander Bogomaz confirmed that the passenger train had 388 people on board at the time of the incident.

Just hours later at approximately 3 a.m., a train derailed in the Kursk region after crossing a damaged railway bridge. This second incident injured three train workers but resulted in no fatalities. Alexander Khinshtein, the acting governor of Kursk, shared that one of the freight train's drivers sustained leg injuries.

Russia’s Investigative Committee initially cited explosions as the cause for the bridge failures, although this statement was later amended without explanation. The cause of the collapses is currently under investigation, with officials considering them as criminal acts.

In the aftermath of the incidents, photos from Bryansk reveal a large-scale rescue effort centered around the collapse site. Debris from the highway bridge was scattered widely, emphasizing the severity of the explosion’s impact. The train driver was among those killed, and nine crew members were hospitalized. Five injured passengers, including a 4-month-old baby in serious condition, have been transported to Moscow for medical treatment.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that President Vladimir Putin has been briefed on the events by Russian intelligence officials and the Emergency Ministry. Additionally, accusations have surfaced from some Russian authorities alleging Ukraine’s involvement in the Bryansk bridge collapse. However, Ukrainian officials have not issued any statements regarding these claims.

These incidents occur during a time of heightened tension and uncertainty surrounding the next round of peace talks between Russia and Ukraine. Scheduled to take place in Istanbul, the meeting's date remains in doubt amid ongoing disagreements over proposed peace terms.

The recent bridge collapses add to an already volatile situation, as Ukraine faces continuous military pressure from Russia, which has increased its offensive efforts in the region.