Continued Operations at Pokrovsk Coal Mine Amid Russian Advances

KYIV (Reuters) – The coal mine in the eastern Ukraine town of Pokrovsk, which supplies coking coal vital for the steel industry, continues to operate despite the approaching Russian forces, according to an industry source.

Ukrainian military analysts reported this week that Russian troops have moved within approximately 7.5 km (4.6 miles) of Pokrovsk, significantly challenging Ukraine's defenses with superior numbers and equipment.

In the past 24 hours, Ukrainian forces managed to repel 31 Russian attacks in the Pokrovsk sector, as stated by the military.

The mine is located 10 km (6.2 miles) west of the town, which serves as a strategic supply hub, positioned away from the advancing Russian troops.

The unnamed industry source did not disclose when the mine's owner, metallurgical group Metinvest, might halt operations or evacuate staff. However, earlier statements from Metinvest highlighted their focus on workers' safety, mentioning the evacuation of employees' families from the frontline area.

This month, Ukraine's steelmakers' union warned that the potential closure of the Pokrovsk mine—the country's sole domestic source of coking coal crucial for steel production—could lead to a dramatic decline in steel output, plummeting from the expected 7.5 million metric tons in 2024 to just 2 million-3 million metric tons.

Steel producers are seeking alternative sources of coking coal from other areas in Ukraine in case the Pokrovsk mine falls into Russian hands; however, imports would still be required, likely increasing their costs.