Protests at Thyssenkrupp: Steelworkers demand state subsidies
Uncertainty around green steel mill: thyssenkrupp workers send signal against possible cuts

The thyssenkrupp steelworkers' union is preparing for protest actions to be held on June 14. The reason is fears of reduced government subsidies for a German Green Steel plant worth 2 billion euros.
The demonstration will be held at thyssenkrupp's steel center in Duisburg and follows weeks of uncertainty over whether the German government will keep its promise to co-finance the so-called Direct Reduction Iron (DRI) plant.
"The hesitation of the German government is a threat to our existence," said Juergen Kerner, a member of the influential IG Metall union and vice chairman of thyssenkrupp's supervisory board. The remarks were quoted from a union handout.
"This situation not only affects Thyssenkrupp Steel, but also has far-reaching implications for the entire steel industry."
The German Economy Ministry, led by Robert Habeck, had pledged its support for the project in the past, but is now considering cutting the amount of financial aid, according to the June 1 handout.
According to sources, the government is expected to provide at least €1 billion in additional funding to the DRI plant. This amount would drastically reduce emissions in steel production, as it is one of the most carbon-intensive industries.
The investment in the DRI plant will be discussed at a supervisory board meeting on June 23, informed circles said. Worker representatives have already threatened to reverse the investment decision.
The workers have also invited Robert Habeck to the protests and expressed their concerns about the future of Thyssenkrupp's steel division, which is currently being prepared for a partial sale or other forms of independent future.
The German Ministry of Economics has not yet issued a statement. However, it recently said it continued to support the project but was waiting for state aid approval from the European Commission.
