The Washington Post reported that Russian and Chinese businessmen, affiliated with their respective governments, held covert discussions regarding plans to construct an underwater tunnel connecting Russia with occupied Crimea. These conversations led to the establishment of a 'consortium' aimed at realizing this project, according to intercepted emails.

Experts opine that the completion of the Kerch tunnel might not be timely for aiding Russia in military operations. However, Moscow appears to view it as a long-term investment for establishing a secure link to Ukraine's Crimea.