TASS quoted statements by Lugansk separatist leader Leonid Pashnik to the Russian press in Starobelsk, which was occupied by pro-Russian militias and Russian forces following the Russian invasion of Ukraine on February 24.
The city is located about 60 kilometers northeast of Severodonetsk, and is currently witnessing fierce battles between the Ukrainian army and the Russian invaders.
Ukraine has denounced Russia’s theft of Ukrainian grain as illegal looting of its resources.
An adviser to the head of the pro-Russian Staroblisk administration, Pavel Kharlamov, told TASS that the grain is sent to Russia by rail.
That official added that within two months, Staroblisk would ship about 200,000 tons of wheat and sunflower seeds to Russia, which it allegedly would pay farmers to “sell” their produce.
“We have restored the railway that connects it to the largest granary in the area, but it has not been operating for eight years, and we have brought the necessary equipment,” the consultant explained.
Russia concluded: “There was a problem with the railways, but it was solved: there are about 600 freight trains assembled with assembled parts across the North Caucasus and the Southern Federal District.”
“Hardcore alcohol maven. Hipster-friendly analyst. Introvert. Devoted social media advocate.”
