The Russian links of Origin Energy’s partner in its controversial Northern Territory gas exploration play have come under scrutiny after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, triggering calls from interest groups for the exploration permits to be scrapped and for a ban on any government funding for the work.

The parent company of Origin’s junior partner in its Beetaloo Basin venture, Falcon Oil & Gas, is partly owned by Lamesa Group, a company controlled by an ally of Russia’s President Putin, Viktor Vekselberg.