It seems that Russia is attempting to secure IO resources globally which is in line with Nectar's report that they are taxing exports.
African Aura cements Severstal ties with sharp rise in Putu resource base
"Russian steel giant Severstal is pouring US$30 million into the project to earn a 61.5 per stake in the project. In doing so it will also compile a pre-feasibility study that is expected to be completed at some point next year."