The DPR and LPR halted coal supplies to Ukraine
The coal mines located in the occupied territories of the Donbas, including those where so-called external management was introduced, halted supplies of high-energy coal to Ukraine, Interfax-Russia reported. Nevertheless, enterprises continue to work and the extraction of coal continues, the DPR (Donetsk People's Republic) Council of Ministers told Interfax news.
The LPR (Luhansk People's Republic) Government also confirmed the cessation of coal supplies to the territories controlled by Ukraine. “After the introduction of external management, Kyiv makes every effort to impede the work of these enterprises. Therefore, even if the blockade is lifted, as we expect, they will probably refuse to purchase coal from these enterprises. Currently, there are no coal supplies, the LPR’s representative said.
The interlocutor reported that about 35% of electricity generated in Ukraine is ensured by coal extracted in the Donbas. “All coal mines producing high-energy coal are located in our territory, in Donetsk People’s Republic and Russia. Those coal mines located in the territory controlled by Kyiv don’t extract high-energy coal,” he said.
He confirmed that the self-proclaimed Republics of the Donbas simultaneously started supplying coal to Russia. “In particular, coal supplies to the Crimea are also being discussed,” the source added.