(ZAPORIZHZHIA, UKRAINE) – Operations at the Zaporizhstal steel mill have been completely shut down after a Russian ballistic missile strike overnight hit the industrial site, killing seven employees and wounding 21 others.
The attack struck the plant shortly after an air raid alert was declared, catching workers as they were moving towards shelter. The parent company Metinvest confirmed the casualties and said the plant had been brought to a full stop while damage is assessed and emergency repairs are carried out.
Energy units and wider infrastructure belonging to Metinvest’s Zaporizhzhia enterprises were damaged in the strike. The main and auxiliary facilities of the coke and blast furnace production areas were affected. Other production sites operated by the group in the area are running at reduced capacity.
Metinvest said specialists are evaluating the consequences of the attack, examining what can be restored and how long recovery will take, and are carrying out the necessary emergency repair work.
The company described the loss of the seven team members as a heavy blow for their families, loved ones and the entire workforce. It said it was providing all necessary help and support to the 21 injured.
A day of mourning was declared in the Zaporizhzhia region for 12 August to honour those killed in the overnight attack on 11 August.