Moscow Faces Rising Criticism Over Economic Weakness

(MOSCOW) – Public dissatisfaction in Russia is increasing as the country faces economic decline, with officials offering limited public explanations and signalling that key decisions are being discussed behind closed doors.

The Russian dictator Vladimir Putin recently acknowledged that the Russian economy is deteriorating. His spokesman Dmitry Peskov responded by stating that proposals to stabilise and improve economic performance had been discussed privately among government officials.

Peskov said the public remarks formed only a small part of lengthy closed meetings, where what he described as a “free exchange of views” takes place. He noted that members of the government’s economic bloc had presented multiple proposals aimed at boosting growth and improving economic dynamics. However, he declined to provide details, saying such discussions are intentionally held in private to allow differing views to be compared before decisions are made.

The Kremlin also commented on a widely viewed appeal by a Russian blogger based in Europe, who raised a number of domestic concerns. Peskov confirmed the message had attracted attention and said authorities were already addressing many of the issues mentioned, although he provided no specifics.

The blogger later reacted emotionally after learning her message had been acknowledged by the Kremlin. She stated that she did not consider herself part of any opposition movement and expressed uncertainty about her future, while insisting she was speaking on behalf of ordinary citizens.

At a recent economic forum in Moscow, academician Bulat Nigmatulin described the situation as severe, particularly in relation to the economy. He pointed to low income levels, declining population figures and weak growth indicators.

Nigmatulin stated that Russia has some of the lowest per capita incomes in Europe and that economic growth has averaged around 1.5 percent annually over more than a decade. Over the same period, consumer prices have risen sharply, with official data suggesting a cumulative increase of around 77 percent, equivalent to roughly 7 percent annual inflation.

He also highlighted structural concerns, including a sharp decline in industrial employment and a reduction in the number of scientists relative to other developed countries. According to his assessment, Russia ranks at the bottom among selected economies in terms of efficiency indicators.

Comparisons with other countries showed higher investment returns and economic growth in states such as China, Poland and the United States. Nigmatulin argued that without significant reform, investment conditions in Russia remain unfavourable.

Separately, Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko called for mobilisation measures, framing them as necessary to avoid conflict similar to the war in Ukraine. He argued that systemic changes in governance are required and that mobilisation should occur during what he described as an ongoing information war.

Meanwhile, emergency services in Russia’s Dagestan region responded to a natural disaster after an avalanche struck a high altitude weather station in the Sumadinsky district. Rescue operations were hindered by severe weather conditions, with strong winds preventing helicopter evacuation. At least one fatality was confirmed, while others remained missing, including a woman and a child. Rescue teams continued search efforts as conditions allowed.