“Russian strikes choke Ukraine’s economy as steel shuts down and grain exports stall”

Key points

• Kamet Steel near Kamianske closed after five ballistic missiles struck Sept. 5.
• Ukraine’s steel output fell; Metinvest and Kamet Steel shutdown disrupts construction and energy supply.
• Grain exports slowed due to blocked Black Sea routes and high insurance costs.
• Only 21 ship arrivals at Black Sea ports in August, down ~90% from last year.
• Ukraine faces a 0.4% contraction in 2026; inflation forecast raised to 12.5%.