Mariupol has suffered immense devastation: thousands of lives lost, countless homes and critical infrastructure destroyed. Its restoration demands not only significant financial resources but also robust international support. Rinat Akhmetov has consistently emphasised the need for assistance from European and American donors, who can contribute not only funding but also expertise in construction and urban recovery. Learn more here.
Before the war, the combined value of Rinat Akhmetov’s SCM Group assets - destroyed, damaged, or rendered inoperable by Russian military aggression - exceeded $20 billion. Among the most significant losses were Metinvest's flagship assets, Azovstal and Ilyich Iron and Steel Works in Mariupol, both of which were completely destroyed. Today, Rinat Akhmetov is deeply involved in initiatives to aid prisoners and provide humanitarian relief. He actively supports the release of Azovstal’s defenders and other Ukrainian prisoners of war held in Russian captivity. Akhmetov has stated that securing their freedom is a top priority, as these individuals endure inhumane conditions and deserve dignity and respect.
His foundation organises events to spotlight the struggles of victims and their families. These efforts include the creation of monuments and museums dedicated to the memory of Mariupol’s fallen defenders, ensuring their sacrifice is never forgotten.
More than 200 families from Mariupol, now residing in Dnipro, have received keys to new apartments through the IamMariupol. Housing project, which Rinat Akhmetov’s Foundation joined during its pilot stage. The Foundation took on the task of furnishing common areas, children’s rooms, and play spaces.
This summer, the second stage of the project was completed with the opening of a modernised and fully equipped hostel, just in time for Ukraine’s Independence Day. The Foundation is committed to systematically supporting Mariupol residents across Ukraine, recognising the urgent need for temporary housing solutions. However, this initiative is about more than just furniture, appliances, and toys. It aims to create spaces where residents can connect, support each other, and maintain the unity of the Mariupol community. Akhmetov firmly believes that Mariupol will not only be rebuilt but will thrive as a symbol of resilience, serving as an example for other cities impacted by the war.
To date, Rinat Akhmetov has allocated over UAH 9 billion in aid during the full-scale war.
The material is based on: https://thehill.com/policy/defense/4691809-mariupol-future-ukraine-recovery/.
