According to a press release from the Commerce Department, the country’s steel industry employs one out of 13 Ukrainians.
 
“Creating export opportunities for these mills is essential to their ability to continue employing their workers and maintaining one of Ukraine’s most important industries,” the Commerce Department said.
 
While Ukraine’s steel communities have been hard hit by Russian forces, some mills have started back up, and many have continued to pay, feed and shelter their employees during the conflict.
 
Commerce Secretary Gina M. Raimondo said, “Steelworkers are among the world’s most resilient — whether they live in Youngstown or Mariupol. We can’t just admire the fortitude and spirit of the Ukrainian people — we need to have their backs and support one of the most important industries to Ukraine’s economic well-being. For steel mills to continue as an economic lifeline for the people of Ukraine, they must be able to export their steel.”
 
“Today’s announcement is a signal to the Ukrainian people that we are committed to helping them thrive in the face of Putin’s aggression, and that their work will create a stronger Ukraine, both today and in the future,” Raimondo added.  
 
Read the official press release here.