British intelligence reports: Russia loots Ukraine’s mineral resources in occupied territories – Euromaidan Press

British intelligence reports: Russia loots Ukraine’s mineral resources in occupied territories – Euromaidan Press


The UK Ministry of Defence has issued a report highlighting Russia’s systematic theft and exploitation of Ukrainian resources in the occupied territories. The report, dated July 4, 2024, reveals that Russia has been stealing resources such as iron ore, coal, titanium, uranium, manganese, gold, and lithium from Ukraine’s occupied areas. This exploitation is used as a tactic to weaken Ukraine’s economy by restricting access to these resources and destroying infrastructure.

In addition to resource theft, the intelligence update also notes Russia’s efforts to enhance transport networks in occupied Ukraine to facilitate the extraction of minerals. Russian officials in the Zaporizhia region have discussed modernizing road and rail transport links with Russia not only for military logistics but also for the export of grain and minerals. Specifically, in the Zaporizhia region, south of Dniprorudne, Russia continues to mine iron ore and transport it by rail through Crimea and the Kerch bridge into Russia. However, these operations are not without risk as Ukrainian partisans have been known to carry out attacks in these areas.

This report underscores the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, with Russia’s strategic aim being both the exploitation of Ukrainian resources and the undermining of Ukraine’s economy. By stealing valuable resources and hindering access to them, Russia seeks to weaken Ukraine and assert its dominance over the region.

The British Ministry of Defence’s report sheds light on the complex dynamics at play in the conflict, as well as the ways in which Russia is utilizing economic tactics to achieve its geopolitical goals. The situation in Ukraine remains volatile, with ongoing tensions and clashes between Ukrainian forces and Russian-backed separatists.

Overall, the report highlights the importance of international attention and support for Ukraine in its struggle against Russian aggression. The exploitation of Ukrainian resources by Russia not only poses a threat to Ukraine’s economy and infrastructure but also serves as a reminder of the broader geopolitical implications of the conflict in the region.

Article Source
https://euromaidanpress.com/2024/07/04/uk-intel-russia-steals-ukraines-mineral-resources-in-occupied-areas/