In 2026, Russia intends to launch a large-scale geological exploration program in the temporarily occupied territories of Donetsk region. This initiative is planned to last until 2031 and involves multi-year, phased research of deposits, focusing on strategically important and rare metals that are in demand in the modern economy.
This is reported by Business • Media
Details of the geological exploration program
The program that Russia plans to implement is not limited to one-time studies. It includes several phases that involve in-depth analysis and refinement of data regarding deposits. The basis for conducting the exploration will be archival Soviet geological materials, which the occupying administration plans to update and supplement. In addition to assessing reserves, the potential for further industrial development of the subsoil will be determined. Funding for these works will be provided from the state budget of the Russian Federation.
Purpose of utilizing Donetsk’s resources
The Ukrainian Foreign Intelligence Service emphasized that the growing interest in the subsoil of Ukrainian Donetsk is related to the crisis in Russia’s traditional raw material sectors. In particular, the oil sector of the occupying country is facing significant difficulties, forcing the Kremlin to seek new sources of income to fill the budget and support the war economy. In such conditions, the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine are viewed as a source of resources to ensure Russia’s economic interests and finance its military needs.
“In fact, this is about the deliberate use of Ukrainian lands and natural resources to enrich the aggressor state.”