Russia’s Economy Falters Amid Growing Internal Criticism

Russia’s Economy Falters Amid Growing Internal Criticism

President Vladimir Putin acknowledged a decline in the Russian economy, prompting Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov to address concerns and discuss potential solutions. Peskov stated that numerous proposals to improve the economic situation were discussed behind closed doors during a recent meeting. He described these closed-door sessions as a normal part of the government’s working process, allowing for a free exchange of views to arrive at the best decisions.

During a public address, Putin alluded to economic challenges. Peskov later elaborated that while the president’s public remarks reflected a portion of the meeting, the full session involved several hours of discussion.

Government economic officials presented various proposals aimed at stimulating economic activity and fostering development. Peskov characterized these discussions, which sometimes involve disagreements, as a standard operational procedure, emphasizing that such meetings are held regularly.

Blogger’s Appeal Gains Kremlin Attention

Dmitry Peskov also commented on an appeal made by Victoria Bova, a Russian blogger residing in Europe, who addressed President Putin with concerns reportedly shared by many Russians. Peskov acknowledged the widespread attention the blogger’s message received on social media, noting that it touched upon significant topics. He stated that work is actively underway on these issues, involving numerous individuals and receiving considerable attention, suggesting these are high-profile matters.

However, Peskov dismissed the blogger’s appeal as not representing genuine opposition but rather a “well-staged scenario.” Bova, in response to being mentioned by the Kremlin, expressed that she was moved by their acknowledgment. She thanked Peskov for confirming that work on the issues she raised is progressing.

Academician Highlights Economic Woes

Concerns about Russia’s internal economic situation have also been voiced by prominent figures. At the Moscow Economic Forum, academician Nigmatulin declared the country’s internal situation, particularly the economy, to be “catastrophic.” He expressed a sincere belief that Russia is in trouble, citing low per capita incomes compared to other European nations.

Nigmatulin contrasted the current situation with the Soviet era, when sacrifices were made for national development in areas like space and nuclear energy. He noted that Russia has now lost this progress, with incomes in even the poorest regions of China surpassing those in Russia’s impoverished areas. The academician also pointed to a declining population, with a natural decrease of 600,000 people annually, and slow GDP growth averaging 1.5% per year since 2014-2015, while consumer prices have risen by 77%.

Criticism of Unimplemented Decrees and Economic Performance

A significant point of criticism raised by Nigmatulin is the lack of implementation of presidential economic decrees since 2012. He questioned why the president does not demand accountability or penalize those responsible for these failures. The academician presented data showing Russia’s low economic efficiency compared to other countries, including Poland and the United States, in terms of investment growth and GDP increase.

Further data highlighted the decline in industrial workers, with mechanical engineering seeing a drop from 4 million in 1999 to 440,000. Light industry has also significantly reduced its workforce.

Conversely, the number of couriers and security guards has increased substantially. The ratio of scientists per 10,000 population in Russia is 54, compared to 174 in more advanced countries, indicating a loss of scientific capacity.

Belarusian President Calls for Mobilization

In a related development, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has called for mobilization within Belarus. He stated that this measure is necessary to avoid a conflict similar to the one in Ukraine and emphasized the need for a change in the management system. Lukashenko believes that mobilization is essential for survival during difficult times, but noted the absence of effective “mobilizers” and a functional system to support such efforts.

Lukashenko reflected on Western influence, suggesting that the emphasis on pluralism and the absence of parties have weakened the system. He expressed a desire to return to a system that ensures effective mobilization and accountability, recalling a time when district party and executive committees had fewer officials despite a larger population.

Natural Disaster in Dagestan

Separately, a natural disaster struck Dagestan, where an avalanche expanded the emergency zone due to adverse weather conditions. The body of another victim was discovered, bringing the total number of known fatalities. The Sulak Gornaya weather station, Russia’s highest mountain weather station, sent a distress signal after its employees were buried by snow.

Rescue efforts were hampered by strong winds, preventing helicopters from safely reaching the site for evacuation. Efforts to rescue meteorologists were postponed until weather conditions improve. Search teams continue to look for a woman and child still missing under the snow, and many animals have reportedly perished in the disaster.

Source: 😱RUSSIA IS FALLING APART! Elites turn against Kremlin. Peskov is panicking and making excuses (YouTube)