The Zaporizhstal Iron and Steelworks, one of Ukraine's largest plants, faces daily challenges due to its role in providing materials for military and foreign manufacturers, while Russian troops are only 40 kilometers away.
President Trump's tariffs, imposing at least a 25% duty on imported steel and aluminum, pose a threat to Ukraine's steel industry, which is crucial for both its economy and military provisions, as stated by the Ukrainian Steel Association.
In response to this situation, Ukrainian Economy Minister Yulia Svyrydenko has expressed a willingness to engage in negotiations with U.S. officials to safeguard access to the steel market. She underlined that Ukraine's steel exports constitute just 0.81% of U.S. imports.
The steel sector's contribution to Ukraine's gross domestic product has almost halved since the beginning of the conflict, underscoring its vulnerable position.