Ukraine may halve steel production if Pokrovsk is occupied by Russia

This was stated by Oleksandr Kalenkov, the President of Ukrmetallurgprom, the association of 15 leading Ukrainian metallurgical enterprises.  

According to Kalenkov, steel production during the two years of the full-scale war was 6-6.5 million tonnes per year. The Ukrainian government-controlled territory has the resources to reach a steel production level of 12 million tonnes per year.

However, if Pokrovsk in Donetsk region is captured by Russia, this could drop to 2 to 3 million tonnes per year.

The President of Ukrmetallurgprom also noted that Pokrovsk is home to the only Ukrainian mine, producing coking coal.

‘In two years, we have been producing 6-6.5 million tonnes of steel, and this year we can reach 7.5 million tonnes. If we lose Pokrovsk, it will be 2 to 3 million tonnes,’ Kalenkov added.

• On September 23, British intelligence reported that the Russian occupation army was advancing in various parts of the frontline. In particular, Pokrovsk remains the hottest area, with the enemy advancing closer to the city.