Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has caused immense suffering and hardship. One aspect of its cruelty is plunder – theft on a massive scale through which Russia reaps rewards for its war of aggression.
PEJ has been at the forefront of uncovering these crimes and drawing international attention to their significance. Recently, our efforts were noted in two The Wall Street Journal articles. “How Russia Profits From Ukraine Invasion by Selling Stolen Grain on a Global Black Market” reveals the systematic theft of Ukraine's agricultural bounty. This plunder is both an act of economic warfare and a violation of international law – one that has generated nearly $1 billion in revenue since 2022.
“Russia Turns Mariupol’s Steel Mills From Battle Zone to Spoils of War” details how Russia has transformed Mariupol’s once-thriving steel industry into a casualty of its invasion, stripping and repurposing industrial assets to sustain its war machine.
As these articles help to underscore, PEJ has been at the forefront of making sure these crimes are neither forgotten nor without consequence. In a recent report, PEJ detailed the pillage of Ukrainian agricultural assets in Kherson, a key agricultural region. Occupying authorities confiscated and “nationalized” Ukrainian farmlands and rerouted grain supplies to Russian-controlled ports. PEJ identified over 50 agro-industrial companies from which occupying authorities wrested control and forcibly transferred ownership.
This is critical to illuminating the scope and devastating impact of Russia’s economic warfare. Through rigorous documentation and advocacy, PEJ is keeping these crimes in the spotlight. The ultimate goal is accountability – holding perpetrators responsible and seeking redress for the people of Ukraine.
PEJ’s work in Ukraine is made possible by the generous support of the Howard G. Buffett Foundation.
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