I know that Russia is not overflowing with cash right now, but lets not confuse the state with the wealthy private companies/individuals.

As well as that, lets not forget that $4 billion that is in the VenRus Bank that was formed very recently. It would only take half that to give us a half decent deal, and better if shares were thrown in from whomever. I can't see Chavez accepting swapping KRY for another 'western' miner tho'. And as mentioned, the Chinese have already lent VZ 16 billion. What's another 2 or 3?

No, I don't think money is the problem....it's politics and logistics in my opinion.. :()

P