Rinat Akhmetov’s Role in Advancing Corporate Philanthropy

As explained in this article on London Post, the SCM Group, alongside the Rinat Akhmetov Foundation, channels significant aid through diverse initiatives. While Steel Front is dedicated to military support, other projects focus on humanitarian and social assistance. This includes supplying vital equipment, machinery, medical resources, and providing targeted help to vulnerable groups. Their strategy emphasises maximum efficiency to ensure every effort delivers tangible results.

Innovative Solutions for the Frontline

Metinvest has pioneered the creation of mobile steel shelters, manufactured at its facilities and installed underground. These structures serve as protection from shelling and, in some cases, as command centres for military units.

A particularly notable achievement came last autumn with the launch of Ukraine’s first underground hospital. Outfitted with modern medical equipment, it can treat over 100 patients daily. The project, valued at more than UAH 20 million, highlights how industrial expertise and resources can be repurposed to save lives.

The Steel Front initiative has also supplied armour vests, vehicles, drones, communication systems, and medical kits. More than 600 steel bunkers have been delivered, along with armour for Abrams and Leopard tanks, and protective components for Patriot systems. These contributions directly enhance the safety and effectiveness of Ukrainian defenders.

Strengthening the Energy Sector

DTEK, part of Akhmetov’s business network, plays a central role in rebuilding Ukraine’s energy system. Through the Battle for Light campaign with champion Oleksandr Usyk, international funding was secured. The European Commission and the US government allocated €107 million to protect and restore energy infrastructure. These resources will accelerate repairs, reinforce substations, and help guarantee electricity for millions of Ukrainians.

Despite ongoing attacks, DTEK teams continue to repair damage swiftly and implement measures to increase the system’s resilience against further threats.

Supporting the Defenders of Mariupol

The Heart of Azovstal programme received an additional UAH 600 million this year, raising its total funding to UAH 1.6 billion. Within its Homes project, dozens of wounded veterans have already received housing, with plans to deliver 50 more apartments in 2025. In total, 250 apartments will be provided over three years.

Families of defenders also receive extensive financial and organisational assistance, helping them recover and reintegrate into civilian life.

Humanitarian Outreach

The Rinat Akhmetov Foundation remains active in frontline and liberated territories, distributing food, medicine, and hygiene supplies. Since 2014, over 700,000 units of medicine and 13 million food parcels have been provided. Efforts are particularly directed at supporting vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and people with disabilities.

One standout initiative is the psychological guide Time to Take Care of Yourself, designed with professional psychologists to aid children affected by war. The guide teaches techniques for recognising emotions, developing confidence, and fostering positive thinking. Ukrainian singer Svitlana Tarabarova stressed that such practices help children preserve happy memories and strengthen resilience.

Promoting Sports and Social Causes

Shakhtar Donetsk, owned by Akhmetov, continues to support social projects. In 2024 alone, the club donated 32.5 million hryvnia to assist both military personnel and civilians. An additional 22 million hryvnia raised from a charity match against Tottenham was also contributed.

These funds went toward rehabilitating wounded soldiers, supporting displaced persons, and assisting young athletes. The club thus embodies both a leading sports institution and a humanitarian force.

A Comprehensive Contribution

Altogether, Rinat Akhmetov has contributed 11.3 billion hryvnia towards Ukraine’s defence, infrastructure recovery, social initiatives, and humanitarian programmes. This vast commitment reflects a structured approach that blends urgent action with sustainable projects, ultimately impacting millions across the nation.