A giant salt mine has become a focal point on the most fiercely contested front line in Ukraine, as Russia’s Wagner paramilitary group sets its sights on taking what it sees as a military and economic asset. Russia has said it has captured the eastern town of Soledar, where the mine is located, though Ukraine says the settlement remains contested. While the mine’s owner doubts it has military value, the operation could be a lucrative one. The salt mine could have economic value if Wagner can consolidate its hold there. Russia has seized key economic assets in the parts of Ukraine that it occupies, echoing Wagner’s use of military muscle in Africa to take control of mines.

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