Kyiv - The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has seen the city of Pokrovsk emerge as a critical battleground, with both Ukrainian and Russian forces vying for control. For months, the Pokrovsk axis has been one of the hottest fronts, witnessing approximately 100 direct clashes daily, which accounts for half of all confrontations across the extensive 1,200-kilometer front line. According to the Ukrainian General Staff, Russian forces are reportedly losing between 200 to 300 soldiers daily, a figure echoed by Russian sources regarding Ukrainian casualties.
The strategic significance of Pokrovsk cannot be overstated. Located just 25 kilometers from the Dnepropetrovsk province, it serves as a crucial point in the Donetsk region, where over 55% is already under Russian control. Military expert Oleg Zhdanov notes that capturing Pokrovsk would give Russian forces access to the M04 international highway, jeopardizing the Dnepropetrovsk region and cutting off supply lines to Ukrainian forces from the west.
Moreover, Pokrovsk is rich in natural resources, particularly rare coking coal, essential for Ukraine's steel production. The mines in this area are vital to the Ukrainian economy, contributing significantly to its metallurgy industry. Oleksandr Kalinkov, director of the UkrMetalloprom metallurgy union, warns that losing these mines could reduce Ukraine's steel production by 50-60%, severely impacting its export capabilities.
Despite the risks, mining operations continue, with around 3,500 workers operating under hazardous conditions. CEO Andriy Akulich reports that miners are working in protective gear and utilizing underground shelters to ensure safety while maintaining production. In 2023, these mines provided 90% of Ukraine's coking coal needs, but the ongoing conflict has led to a drastic reduction in production capacity, potentially dropping from a planned 10 million tons to just 3.5 million tons this year.
The loss of Pokrovsk and its mines would not only disrupt local production but also force Ukrainian companies to rely on imported coke, which would require significant logistical adjustments and could lead to a steep increase in production costs. Kalinkov emphasizes that maintaining control over the Pokrovsk mines is crucial for Ukraine's economic survival and post-war recovery, as the industrial sector, which includes mining and heavy industries, constitutes a significant portion of the country's GDP. The outcome of the battle for Pokrovsk could thus have profound implications for Ukraine's future.
