Fire reported at Russia's Syzran oil refinery

[Postal Grunt]

6. It's all about the money

The areas of Ukraine that Putin is most interested in could be a very profitable chunk of real estate if the US and its allies fail to support Ukraine. Besides the fertile agricultural areas and ports located on the Black Sea, there are coal, oil, and gas deposits. Oftentimes where there are natural gas deposits, there is helium to be found. Helium is very much in demand for chip production. Then there's the fact that Ukraine has about 50% of the world's known titanium deposits. Titanium is needed in the construction of modern aircraft. Putin, at 70 YO, may not live to see the clearance of all the mines and unexploded ordinance from the territory he wishes to seize, but if Russia does become the new landlord, there will be exploitation of the natural resources.