Ukrainian Steelmaker Receives First Batch of US Coaking Coal After Pokrovsk Mine Halt

Metinvest, Ukraine's largest steel producer, has recently received its first shipment of 80,000 metric tons of coking coal from its U.S.-based partner. This development is crucial for the company's operations, as it is supplying coal to support production at its Zaporizhstal and Kamet Steel plants. The U.S. supplies are intended to offset the loss of coking coal from the mine near Pokrovsk, which has been shut down due to ongoing Russian closures in the Donetsk Oblast. The Donetsk Oblast is a key battleground in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, with Ukrainian forces facing significant advances from the aggressor.

The bulk carrier Bison delivering coking coal from United Coal Company to Ukraine. Photo published on April 8, 2025.

The company has already started receiving monthly shipments of 80,000 metric tons of coal, which will help maintain operations despite the challenging conditions in the Ukrainian steel industry. CEO Yurii Ryzhenkov emphasized that despite the aggressive invasion and its impact on the economy, Metinvest is mobilizing resources to ensure the industry’s continued operation. He noted that while coking coal imports are more expensive than domestic supplies due to logistical challenges, this is a critical step to support the Ukrainian economy.

The CEO further highlighted that these U.S. coal supplies will provide tens of thousands of jobs and contribute to increased tax revenue. This aligns with the company’s goal of stabilizing its operations and supporting its workers during a difficult time. Additionally, Metinvest is receiving these supplies from United Coal Company, a producer based in the Appalachian region that was acquired by the Ukrainian steelmaker in 2009. The company’s coal operations are vital as it is the sole producer of coking coal in Ukraine, a key component in steelmaking, and one of Eastern Europe’s largest coking coal resources.

Pokrovsk, a crucial logistics hub for Ukrainian forces, has been the focal point of intense fighting as Russia intensifies its offensive in the Donetsk Oblast. The mine’s shutdown underscores the severe impact of the conflict on energy and industrial supplies in Ukraine. However, the receipt of U.S. coking coal shipments is a positive step toward mitigating some of the challenges posed by the ongoing military operation.