Russian strikes halt production at Ukraine's largest steel plant

ArcelorMittal announced Friday it cannot restart production at Ukraine's largest steel plant after Russian missile strikes, marking a major economic setback from Moscow's escalating air campaign. The Luxembourg-based firm said four strikes in five weeks caused extensive damage and killed five workers at its Kryvyi Rih facility, prompting it to inform the Ukrainian government that safe operations are impossible. The plant produced 1.7 million metric tons of steel in 2025, and the company expects a $1 billion impairment charge. The shutdown adds pressure to Ukraine's steel sector, which accounts for 15% of exports. The UN recorded at least 200 civilian deaths in September, while Russia denies targeting civilians. Analysts say global market impact will be limited since the plant already operated at reduced capacity.