Russia’s environmental watchdog demanded the mining giant pay damages of $2.1 billion after a fuel spill in Siberia.

The Minerals Council said 698 foreign mineworkers had returned on Tuesday.

Silver and platinum futures have traded at elevated levels relative to spot metals since early April.

Nornickel’s operations have barely missed a beat, while its main rivals in South Africa are struggling to ramp up production.

Companies may take until August to get all their employees back at work.

Although the United States continues to hold the largest gold reserves, China and Russia have emerged as the top buyers.