Part 2/8:
The pressing issues began with an announcement revealing the country’s inflation rate soaring to 9.5%. Analysts attribute this spike to the dual factors of Western sanctions and Putin's exorbitant military spending. The Russian economy is showing signs of strain, with interests rates hitting an unprecedented 21%—a figure that continues to rise amidst fears of potential bankruptcies. Business leaders are beginning to voice their concerns regarding these interest rates, reflecting a growing political tension that hints at dissatisfaction among the elite regarding Putin’s economic management.