How Russia Put Its Future at Risk by Remaking Its Economy for War
Key Points:
- President Vladimir Putin has focused intensely on the war against Ukraine for four years, which has helped Russia recover from a poor start and gain leverage in peace talks.
- The war has resulted in an estimated 1.2 million Russian casualties and has significantly disrupted Russia’s economy and society.
- Significant government spending on military efforts has come at the expense of long-term economic development and diversification.
- Prior to the war, Russia faced economic stagnation, demographic decline, and increasing authoritarianism, challenges that have worsened due to the conflict.
- The Kremlin's prioritization of the war has led to widespread militarization and the reallocation of state resources, further straining Russia’s future prospects.