Well if one can find answers to whose behind the sustained...

Well if one can find answers to whose behind the sustained market manipulation - their strategy and when - if the brakes will be released there lies ones answer Duke.
Sure the sector is in a down phase however not so relevant considering ARU are not producing for another 3+ years.
We saw 27c in March on Aus gov 833 million facility followed by recent Canada 400+ million and highly favorable circumstances surrounding tariffs from US and EU and yet here we are a long ways of that 27c in March and any further increases from other key achievements and external highly favorable news flow.
It will pass when they want it to. Deciphering who "they" are is challenging. I believe "they" have Intel in the form of instos in the Dec 22 substantial placement however so to do those engaged in securing remaining finances so could well be either of them.
In observation of the short position charts "they" have made a motza on what appears internal knowledge of timelines - everytime a very positive even critical announcement arrives they crunch it down again in knowledge they have time and tools to reduce their short position when required.

Shorting or hedging on debt payback is not in play. No Aus or Canadian gov are going to provide substantial debt facilities without full understanding and conditions in terms of they have any concerns.