Mongolia's government plans to take public the state-owned miner Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi (ETT) amid a major corruption scandal. The first sell-off round will see 30-40% of ETT sold on the stock exchange to enhance transparency and combat graft. Protests continue in Ulaanbaatar, with demonstrators accusing the government of shielding criminals involved in the scandal. Finance Minister Ganbaatar Jambal advocates for a digital mining exchange to prevent future coal theft. The Independent Authority Against Corruption has arrested 17 individuals, including former President Battulga Khaltmaa, in connection with the scandal. The Democratic Party claims it is being targeted in a political witch hunt by the ruling Mongolian People's Party.

Mongolia's environment minister, Urtnasan Nyamjav, was dismissed by Prime Minister Oyun-Erdene Luvsannamsrai for failing to effectively address Ulaanbaatar's severe winter air pollution. Criticized for her lack of qualifications, Urtnasan's tenure saw continued reliance on refined coal briquettes, which have been linked to worsening air quality and health issues. The government has faced public backlash over its handling of the pollution crisis, with new interim measures and international collaborations being introduced to tackle the problem.

Thousands of people in Mongolia's capital protest against alleged corruption in the coal industry and rising inflation. Whistleblower claims suggest a 'coal faction' of lawmakers has stolen billions of dollars. Mongolia's anti-corruption authority is investigating over 30 officials, including the CEO of the state-owned coal mining company Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi.

Mongolia faces significant economic challenges, with concerns over a potential default due to high debt levels and economic mismanagement. Finance Minister Javkhlan Bold reassures the public, but experts highlight the impact of the pandemic and the Ukraine conflict. The Economist Intelligence Unit warns of reliance on new debt inflows and inflationary pressures. Mismanagement of the Chinggis Bond and non-performing loans at the Development Bank of Mongolia exacerbate the situation. Experts suggest seeking assistance from the IMF and China, but stress the need for accountability and long-term solutions.

Mongolia faces a high risk of default due to its reliance on new debt inflows, high domestic inflation, and potential currency depreciation. Finance Minister Javkhlan Bold reassures the public, but economic challenges from the pandemic and the Ukraine conflict persist. Protests over economic hardship and mismanagement of funds, particularly the Chinggis Bond, exacerbate the situation. The Economist Intelligence Unit warns of jeopardized public finances and investor confidence. Mongolia's coal exports are crucial but hindered by Chinese border policies. Seeking assistance from China and the IMF is suggested, but mismanagement and lack of accountability remain significant issues.

Mongolia, despite leading Asia in COVID-19 vaccinations relative to its population, also has the highest proportional new COVID-19 cases. Public health officials attribute this to transmission by young and unvaccinated groups, complacency after initial containment success, and the impact of the delta and other variants, rather than the efficacy of the Chinese vaccines used.

The article explores the remnants of Soviet military bases in Mongolia, highlighting the historical presence and influence of the Soviet Union in the region. It discusses the economic and geopolitical shifts as Mongolia navigates its relationships with Russia and China, particularly in light of the ongoing war in Ukraine. The narrative includes personal accounts from Mongolians who experienced the Soviet era and those who are affected by current geopolitical dynamics. The article also touches on the economic dependencies and political sentiments within Mongolia, reflecting on the broader implications of the Sino-Russian power balance.

The article explores the remnants of Soviet military bases in Mongolia, highlighting the historical presence of Russian troops and the subsequent decline of Moscow's influence. It discusses Mongolia's current geopolitical situation, caught between its historical ties to Russia and growing economic dependence on China. The narrative includes perspectives from local Mongolians, reflecting on the past and expressing concerns about the future, particularly in light of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and China's increasing influence. The article also touches on the broader geopolitical implications of the conflict, including China's strategic positioning and potential long-term impacts on the Sino-Russian power balance.

Severe flooding in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, has displaced hundreds of residents, leading to emergency measures to ensure safety and provide relief. The flooding, caused by heavy rainfall starting June 30, has overwhelmed infrastructure, particularly in the Bayanzurkh and Sukhbaatar districts. Authorities have deployed resources to restore normality, set up relief centers, and implement disinfection procedures. Critics highlight the lack of infrastructure resilience and disaster preparedness, exacerbated by climate change. The situation remains critical, with warnings of potential further rainfall.