Russia is "rushing" to the lunar primarily To reassert its position as a leading space power , demonstrating its technological capabilities amidst international sanctions and competition from other countries like the United States and China, particularly by aiming to reach the lunar's south pole where potential water ice reserves could be located, which would be crucial for future lunar missions and exploration further into the solar system. Key points about Russia's lunar ambitions: Political motivation : After a long hiatus from major lunar missions, Russia sees a return to the moon as a way to regain prestige and demonstrate its technological prowess on the global stage, especially in the face of recent geopolitical challenges; Ressources Accessibility : The primary target is the Moon's south pole, where scientists believe large quantities of water ice could be present, which could be used to generate oxygen and hydrogen for fu...