Final answer:
The Mongols were interested in both plunder and controlling Russian territory. They established themselves in Russian territory, built a new capital, and had local leaders pledge allegiance to them.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Mongols were not solely interested in plunder and treasure without any interest in controlling Russian territory. While they did loot cities and collect tribute, they also established themselves in Russian territory and maintained a presence there. They built a new capital on the Volga and had Russian princes pledge allegiance to them. The Russian part of the Mongol Empire, known as 'the Golden Horde,' asserted its independence and continued to exist even after the Mongol rule had dissipated.