Largest Ukrainian steel maker Zaporizhstal plunged into blackout after Russia's massive strike
Photo: Zaporizhstal Iron and Steel Works goes dark after Russia's massive strike on energy infrastructure (Getty Images)
As a result of Russia's large-scale strikes on Ukraine's energy infrastructure, Zaporizhstal Iron and Steel Works was completely cut off from power, forcing an emergency shutdown of production, according to the company’s press service.
"The plant's team promptly switched to alternative power sources and carried out a safe shutdown of production processes in line with the anti-crisis action protocol," the press service said.
Thanks to a rapid response and emergency measures to minimize abnormal situations, the company managed to avoid a man-made accident and reduce atmospheric emissions. There is no threat to the life or health of employees or local residents.
"Operational decisions have been implemented at the plant to stabilize the internal energy system. Production will resume after external power supplies are restored," the company said on its website.
Massive attack on Ukraine on December 23
Russian forces carried out another combined overnight attack on Ukraine, using attack drones and missiles. According to available information, the enemy launched more than 600 drones and dozens of missiles.
In Kyiv, drone debris fell in the Sviatoshynskyi district. At least four people have been reported injured.
It was also reported that Ukrainian nuclear power plants reduced electricity generation following Russia’s overnight strike. A return to full capacity will be possible after repair work is completed.
Russian forces also attacked DTEK thermal power plants, damaging equipment at several facilities.
According to the Ministry of Energy, as of the morning, consumers in the Rivne, Ternopil, and Khmelnytskyi regions were almost completely without power as a result of the overnight attack.
Power outages were also reported in the Vinnytsia, Chernihiv, Zhytomyr, as well as Donetsk, Dnipropetrovsk, and Kharkiv regions. Emergency repair work will begin as soon as the security situation allows.
