The article discusses the current state of the Russian economy, which has been heavily impacted by four years of war with Ukraine. The economic hardship is taking a toll on the morale of ordinary Russians, and optimism about the economy has softened. Despite this, Russia's military expenditure as a share of GDP has doubled to more than 7%, making it one of the highest in the world. However, the rise in spending has slowed down, and Russia faces challenges in maintaining its war chest, including access to international markets and reliance on oil prices.
The article also discusses how Putin is likely to encourage the central bank to print money, raise taxes, sell state property, and nationalize business corporations to maintain the war effort. Additionally, there are questions about whether growing economic discontent in Russia will translate into growing political discontent.
Ultimately, the article concludes that while Russia's war economy may show signs of weakness, it is still likely to be able to maintain its war effort at least in the short term due to its unique position and ability to borrow money. However, the situation remains uncertain, and Ukraine's negotiators are hoping that Russia's economic struggles will give them an advantage in peace talks.
Key statistics mentioned in the article include:
* Russian military expenditure as a share of GDP has doubled to more than 7%.
* The US's spending on defense as a share of GDP is around 3.4%.
* Access to international markets for Russia has been cut since the invasion.
* Oil prices have fallen, but may stabilize or rise if demand increases.
Overall, the article provides an in-depth analysis of the Russian economy and its implications for Ukraine and the world.
The article also discusses how Putin is likely to encourage the central bank to print money, raise taxes, sell state property, and nationalize business corporations to maintain the war effort. Additionally, there are questions about whether growing economic discontent in Russia will translate into growing political discontent.
Ultimately, the article concludes that while Russia's war economy may show signs of weakness, it is still likely to be able to maintain its war effort at least in the short term due to its unique position and ability to borrow money. However, the situation remains uncertain, and Ukraine's negotiators are hoping that Russia's economic struggles will give them an advantage in peace talks.
Key statistics mentioned in the article include:
* Russian military expenditure as a share of GDP has doubled to more than 7%.
* The US's spending on defense as a share of GDP is around 3.4%.
* Access to international markets for Russia has been cut since the invasion.
* Oil prices have fallen, but may stabilize or rise if demand increases.
Overall, the article provides an in-depth analysis of the Russian economy and its implications for Ukraine and the world.