A Ukrainian strike has left 41 miners trapped deep underground at the Bilorichenska coal mine in Russian-held Luhansk region, according to local officials.
The attack damaged a power substation, cutting electricity to the mine and halting operations, with rescue teams now racing to restore power and bring the workers to safety.
Leonid Pasechnik, the Moscow-appointed head of the Luhansk People’s Republic, confirmed the incident on Monday. He stated that all relevant emergency services are actively working to rescue the miners and repair the power supply.
“Good news: contact with the miners has already been established,” Pasechnik said. “They have a supply of drinking water.”
No immediate reports of injuries among the trapped workers have emerged, and efforts are focused on restoring electricity as quickly as possible.
What Happened at the Bilorichenska Mine?
The Bilorichenska coal mine, located in the occupied part of Luhansk Oblast, is one of the key coal producers in the region, supplying a significant portion of thermal coal for local needs. The strike targeted infrastructure, specifically knocking out a substation that powers the mine’s operations.
Russian-installed authorities described the situation as under control, emphasizing that communication lines with the underground team remain open and basic supplies are available.
Rescue operations are underway, though details on the expected timeline for evacuation have not been released.
Broader Context
The war’s impact on energy and mining infrastructure remains severe. Coal mines are critical for both sides’ economies and energy needs, making them frequent targets or collateral in strikes. Ukrainian officials often describe such operations as hitting military-linked or dual-use facilities, while Russian-installed authorities highlight risks to civilians and workers.
Rescue teams are typically mobilized quickly in such cases, using backup power systems or manual evacuation where possible. However, deep mines can complicate efforts if ventilation or lifting systems are affected.