**Ukraine Blows Up Mine Shaft to Stop Russian Advance**
The Ukrainian government has blown up the shaft of a coal mine in the village of Pishchane, Donetsk Oblast. The move was made to prevent Russian troops from taking control of the mine and using it to attack nearby Ukrainian positions.
According to Ukrainian miners, the mine’s original shaft became too dangerous to use due to constant Russian attacks. They switched to using another shaft, but the main one was still in danger of being taken by Russian forces.
**Russian Troops Getting Closer**
Pokrovsk, a town near the mine, has been the site of fierce fighting between Ukrainian and Russian forces. The Russians have been advancing on the town, which is a crucial logistics hub for Ukraine.
If the Russians had taken control of the mine, they could have used its tunnels to outflank Ukraine’s positions and gain an advantage in the war.
**Ukraine’s Economic Concerns**
The mine produces coking coal, a key ingredient in steelmaking. Steel exports are a significant contributor to Ukraine’s economy, with nearly $2 billion generated in the first eight months of 2024.
However, with the loss of the Pokrovsk mine and plans to increase output next year threatened, Ukraine’s steel production may be slashed from 7.5 million metric tons to just 2-3 million tons.
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