ANTI-CRISIS STRATEGY FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF TRANSPORT ENTERPRISES IN THE CONTEXT OF MODERN ECONOMIC THEORIES

Abstract

Introduction. The full-scale invasion caused large-scale destruction of Ukraine’s transport infrastructure and seriously disrupted logistics chains. This article explores how transport enterprises in the country adapted to such extreme conditions. Among the key trends identified are route diversification – notably through the EU‑backed “Solidarity Lanes” initiative –, rapid restoration of damaged infrastructure accompanied by modernisation (for instance, switching to European track gauge), digitalisation of logistics operations, and international cooperation. These measures helped maintain operational flexibility and continuity of logistics despite active combat. At the same time, the war period has seen the emergence of foundations for sustainable development: companies are launching railway electrification projects, renewing their vehicle fleets, and integrating environmental standards. Several modern economic theories – institutional, evolutionary, resilience, behavioural economics, resource‑based view, new institutional, complexity, Keynesian, public choice, and ecological economics – proved useful in explaining the strategies adopted. The results obtained indicate that the combination of immediate anti-crisis actions and long-term strategic planning in Ukraine's transport sector is a unique and decisive factor in adaptability. Future research prospects lie in developing quantitative models for the "green" transition of Ukraine's transport system, taking into account its post‑war integration into the Trans‑European Transport Network (TEN‑T) and climate neutrality goals.

Purpose. The purpose of this work is to provide a theoretical and practical framework linking the wartime adaptation of Ukrainian transport companies to contemporary economic theories, thereby identifying strategic priorities for sustainable recovery and EU integration.

Materials and methods. The research is based on the analysis of scholarly publications, analytical reports from the OECD, the EIB, and the EU, and official strategic documents of Ukraine. Thematic case studies of leading companies (notably JSC "Ukrzaliznytsia") are also considered. The methods of system analysis, comparison, and generalization are employed to identify trends and innovations. Special attention is paid to content analysis of literature on resilience, digitalization, green logistics, and infrastructure adaptation. The methodology has enabled a comprehensive description of both immediate responses and long-term directions for the recovery and modernization of transport enterprises.

Results. The results show that Ukraine's transport sector's resilience is built on several interrelated components. These include operational flexibility through alternative routes: the "Solidarity Lanes" via Poland, Romania, and the Danube have partially compensated for the loss of Black Sea ports. Rapid infrastructure restoration has been accompanied by modernization – express repairs of roads and bridges, and the reconstruction of railway lines to European standards. Digital tools (mobile applications, online tracking, e-customs) have enabled logistics to be maintained during the crisis. Thanks to international cooperation, over €1 billion in EU grants has been secured for the "Solidarity Lanes", and the vehicle fleet has been renewed. "Green" elements are also evident – railway electrification projects and pilot initiatives to reduce emissions. Thus, adaptation during the war is combined with long‑term development plans. Modern economic theories – resilient networks, public funding, regulatory policy, technological innovations, and "green" synergy – explain the chosen strategies.

Prospects. The article demonstrates that Ukraine's transport sector responds to the crisis through simultaneous immediate response measures and strategic renewal. Future research prospects lie in formalising this experience, particularly in developing models for the "green" transition of the transport system after the war. This involves analysing the technical and economic efficiency of route electrification, the use of renewable energy in logistics, and integration into TEN‑T in line with the EU's climate goals. An example is the assessment of railway corridors in terms of emission reduction and load capacity. Overall, such research will help optimize investments in infrastructure restoration and identify priorities in line with the criteria of a sustainable economy.