Russian Strike on Ukraine Steel Plant Kills Two, ArcelorMittal Says
The attack on the Kryvyi Rih facility killed two people and injured 13, while damage to energy and blast furnace infrastructure forced a partial production shutdown.
LONDON, Aug 17: Two people were killed and 13 workers and contractors injured after a Russian strike hit the ArcelorMittal steel plant in Kryvyi Rih, Ukraine, partially disrupting operations at the country’s largest steelworks.
The attack took place on Sunday and caused damage to key infrastructure supporting energy supply and blast furnace operations, according to reports citing the company’s press service.
The strike prompted ArcelorMittal Kryvyi Rih to partially suspend production while specialists assess the damage and determine the repairs required to restore normal operations.
Emergency teams, including firefighters, rescue personnel and medical workers, were involved in search and rescue efforts following the attack.
The facility, owned by the global steelmaker associated with Indian billionaire Lakshmi Mittal, is one of Ukraine’s major industrial installations and plays an important role in the country’s economy.
Russian state run newspaper Rossiya Gazeta reported that the strike affected important energy and blast furnace production facilities at the plant. It described the steelworks as part of Ukraine’s strategic economic and security infrastructure.
The latest attack is not the first time the facility has been affected by the war. A Russian missile strike in 2022 damaged a rolling mill at the plant and resulted in the death of one worker.
Authorities and company specialists are continuing to evaluate the latest damage. The duration of the production disruption will depend on the condition of the affected equipment and the time needed to complete repairs.
The incident adds to the continuing risks faced by Ukraine’s industrial infrastructure as Russian attacks remain focused on critical facilities across the country.
