Putin and Shoigu want to cut down and sell Ukrainian forests - Intelligence report

ROMAN PETRENKO — TUESDAY, 15 MARCH 2022, 12:32 P.M.

Russia plans massive cutting down of Ukrainian forests, according to a letter from the Russian Defence Minister, Sergei Shoigu "On the possibility of felling trees on defence lands", addressed personally to Russian President Vladimir Putin, a copy of which has been obtained by Ukrainian intelligence.

Source:  Chief Intelligence Directorate of the Defence Ministry of Ukraine

Details: The document is aimed at obtaining permission for the clear-cutting of Ukrainian "forests, trees, shrubs and green spaces." Felling is planned at sites "of any density and age, regardless of the form of ownership and category of land, with the right to use the wood obtained."

At the same time, the letter notes, any wood not used for the needs of the Russian Federation Armed Forces will be sold, and the funds received will be used to support the occupying army. Shoigu asks Putin to allow the Russian forces to "promptly carry out a task of strategic importance."

Reminder: According to Ukrainian intelligence data, within the Russian political establishment only Putin and Shoigu support the war.