In the occupied Donetsk, the destruction of important infrastructure continues. In particular, coal mines have practically ceased operations. This information is confirmed by sources that report on life in the occupied territories, including the Telegram channel “Petrovsky Tut | Donetsk”.
Closure of the Last Mine in Donetsk
According to the so-called “head of the Donetsk Trade Union of Coal Industry Workers,” in August 2024, the last operating coal mine in occupied Donetsk – the Skochinsky mine, finally ceased operations. The mine was switched to a dewatering mode, which means a complete halt to coal production and transitioning to protecting the mine from flooding.
History and Significance of the Skochinsky Mine
The Skochinsky mine has a long history and has always been one of the key enterprises in the region. It was put into operation during the Soviet era and for many years remained one of the main sources of coal in the Donetsk region. The closure of the mine is not only an economic loss but also a symbolic end to the era of coal mining in the region, which was long considered the heart of coal production in Ukraine.
Causes and Consequences
The main reasons for the mine closure were economic difficulties and the impracticality of further extraction under occupation conditions. The situation is further complicated by ongoing military actions, leading to the destruction of infrastructure and the inability to provide proper working conditions for the mine. The closure of the mine has serious social consequences for the region, as thousands of people are left unemployed, and the region’s economy continues to decline.
Impact on the Economy and Future Prospects
The halt in coal production in Donetsk threatens not only the energy security of the region, but also broader territories dependent on coal supplies. This could lead to serious issues with heating and electricity provision, especially as winter approaches. Furthermore, further degradation of the coal industry in Donetsk could exacerbate migration processes and contribute to even more social tension in the region.
Such events indicate a deep crisis that the occupied Donbas is plunging into, and demonstrate the inability of the occupying authorities to ensure stable development in the region.
