In a controversial move, Russian President Vladimir Putin has transferred control of the Illich Iron and Steel Works in Mariupol to individuals closely linked to Ramzan Kadyrov, the leader of Chechnya. This decision has raised significant concerns regarding the exploitation of the facility, which was once a major asset of Ukrainian businessman Rinat Akhmetov. The plant has now become a focal point of looting and illegal activities, enriching Kadyrov's associates at the expense of Ukraine's industrial heritage.
The plant's takeover has been orchestrated by figures such as Ruslan Geremeyev, a known associate of Kadyrov, and Vakhit Geremeyev, the deputy head of Chechnya's Ministry of Construction and Housing. These individuals are connected to Senator Suleiman Geremeyev, a key ally of Kadyrov. Notably, Valid Geremeyev, a family member, now holds half of the shares in Mariupol Illich Iron and Steel Works LLC, the entity that has taken over operations at the facility.
Reports indicate that the looting of the plant is ongoing, with trucks regularly departing the premises laden with rolled steel products bound for Russia. The situation highlights a significant deterioration of the plant's operational integrity, as Russian forces have been seen dismantling valuable production lines, one reportedly valued at $220 million, that were installed shortly before the onset of the conflict.
Since the plant's occupation, various transactions involving its steel products have been reported. For instance, a Moscow-based trading company exported approximately $380,000 worth of steel products from the facility in September 2022. This activity has continued, with other Russian entities selling leftover coal and materials from the site. In January 2023, steel products valued at around $50,000 were shipped to Uzbekistan, showcasing the broader network of exploitation surrounding the plant.
The dynamics of power at the plant are complex. Valid Korchagin's share in the operation was recently reassigned to Alash Dadashov, who is also linked to Kadyrov and heads the Moscow-based Akhmat fight club. Despite this transfer, the Geremeyev family retains significant control over the facility. Vakhit Geremeyev has made statements expressing his ambition to restore the plant by 2026, although his current focus appears to be on securing it against further looting, a sentiment he expressed while touring the dilapidated grounds in military attire.
Alash Dadashov has also been reported to facilitate the transfer of industrial gases from the Illich plant to Russia via his company, Technical Materials, in partnership with local businessman Stanislav Komarovsky. This collaboration underscores the extensive ties between local actors and the Chechen leadership, as they capitalize on the chaotic situation in Mariupol.
