Metinvest's Kryvyi Rih plants continue to welcome back veterans returning from the Russo-Ukrainian war. One of them is Valerii Kropova, an employee of Central Iron Ore. Valerii is a role model – a champion of war veterans’ competitions and a dedicated employee in the repair and operations shop. The war veteran shared his story: how he was injured, returned to work, received a prosthesis, and now plans his sporting weekends months in advance.

The same day

Until recently, he served in the glorious 17th Separate Kryvyi Rih Tank Brigade named after Kostiantyn Pestushko. Back in 2014–2015, he fought in some of the hottest spots of the first phase of the war – including the retreat from the Debaltseve encirclement.

Soon after, Valerii returned to civilian life and resumed work at Central Iron Ore, which he had first joined in 2005 and where he earned a reputation as a skilled drill rig operator. A few years later, Valerii Kropova returned to military service.

"My military speciality is combat engineering – I’m an officer. Back in 2017, I signed a five-year contract, but it turned out I served a full seven years. Before the full-scale invasion, I was a deputy unit commander responsible for conscripts. And then came 2022… My contract was supposed to end that year, but the war went on. Since the start of the invasion, I fought in the Zaporizhzhia and Kherson sectors, as well as in Donetsk region. It was near Bakhmut, two years ago, that I lost my leg," says the war veteran.

Getting back on his feet

Valerii underwent lengthy treatment at the Lutsk regional hospital. Multiple surgeries, rehabilitation, recovery...

"I knew from day one – since I lost my right leg – that I would get back on my feet. I mean with a prosthesis. I wanted it and was determined to do it as quickly as possible, even though I was told things could turn out differently and that a lot depended on my body’s abilities. But I’ve seen so many miracles in this war that I’ve long been sure: anything is possible – even the impossible," recalls Valerii.

Following medical advice, Valerii chose to undergo prosthetic treatment closer to home, in Kryvyi Rih. The prosthetics process requires frequent check-ups, fittings, adjustments, and replacements – and, conveniently, the clinic was located on the same street where he lives.

About the number 13 and the miracle of swimming

One number seems to follow the war veteran throughout his life: he signed his contract on the 13th, was discharged from the Armed Forces of Ukraine on 13 December, and received his prosthetic limb on 13 June. Soon after, Valerii began walking with two crutches.

"It all happened very quickly, according to the specialists. I just followed a great piece of advice from a doctor in Lutsk: "If you want to start walking again – swim!". I can swim; I’ve always loved it. I grew up near a river and spent all my time there. Even before receiving his prosthetic limb, Valerii joined the city’s Invictus veterans’ team, supported by the city mayor. We have not only swimming but also shooting and tennis. "At first, I wasn’t sure if I’d be able to do it on one leg. But they encouraged me to try – and I joined. Then, during the next visit to my prosthetist, I heard something I didn’t expect: "Give me one of your crutches." I hesitated and argued, but I handed it over. The next day, I was walking with just one. I realised: all our fears are in our heads – and they’re the hardest to overcome.”

Today, Valerii hardly even notices he has a prosthetic limb – especially when he’s caught up in the thrill of competition, making a pass in table tennis or learning to receive the ball while playing sitting volleyball. His energy, determination, love of freedom, and sense of humour make him a role model for many. He participates in the Invictus Games, Veterans Games, TitansUA, Kryvyi Rih Family Games, and others. At the beginning of last year, Valerii, along with fellow soldiers from the 17th Brigade, represented Ukraine at the United States Air Force Trials. These competitions are traditionally held for U.S. Air Force personnel and veterans. Our hero took 1st place in the 50m backstroke and 2nd place in volleyball during the qualifying rounds.

Support circle

Upon returning to Central Iron Ore, Valerii could no longer continue his career as a drill rig operator due to his injury. The HR department offered him several alternative positions, including one as a dispatcher. He opted for a remote position in the repair and operations shop. His life now revolves around work, training, and family. His beloved is always supportive but never goes easy on him – because she sees him as a fully functioning individual.

Valerii is now the proud recipient of numerous honours and awards – for military, athletic, and volunteering achievements. In the past year alone, he has earned 24 sports medals and seven cups. He also received all degrees of the "For Merit to the City" award. When it comes to the awards, he believes they’re not his alone.

"Behind every military award are the fates of my fellow soldiers who stood by me – someone’s heroic deed or death. Behind every sports award, I see the efforts of my team and those who inspire me. What happened was meant to happen. I think about life philosophically and find it pointless to regret anything. And when I hear others say, "You have so much life, so much enthusiasm, so much passion," I am convinced that I am on the right path."