Russian Lawmaker Warns of Economic Collapse and Unrest as Strikes Hit Oil Infrastructure

(MOSCOW) – A senior member of Russia’s State Duma has warned that the country faces a potential economic collapse that could trigger unrest similar to the events of 1917 if urgent measures are not taken.

The lawmaker said the economy had deteriorated sharply in the first quarter and cautioned that without immediate financial and economic intervention, Russia could face “violent revolution” by autumn. The remarks mark one of the most direct public warnings from within Russia’s political establishment since the full scale invasion of Ukraine.

The comments come as Ukrainian forces continue sustained strikes on Russian oil infrastructure. Overnight attacks targeted a major oil pumping station in the Nizhny Novgorod region, a key facility linking Siberian supplies to export pipelines. Similar strikes have been reported regularly in recent weeks, with large fires breaking out across multiple sites.

In occupied Crimea, further attacks hit oil storage facilities in Feodosia. Satellite imagery indicated that much of the site had already been destroyed in earlier strikes, with additional damage reported after the latest attack. Residents have described widespread destruction of local energy infrastructure.

On Russia’s Black Sea coast, the port city of Tuapse has been affected by prolonged fires following earlier strikes. Local reports describe oil contamination across streets and residential areas, with environmental damage extending into coastal waters. Residents have complained of oil residues affecting homes, vehicles and public spaces.

Russian military bloggers and local observers have increasingly criticised authorities, questioning the handling of air defence and infrastructure protection. Some accounts note that repeated attacks suggest ongoing vulnerabilities in Russia’s air defence network.

Ukrainian forces have also targeted Russian air defence systems. Reports indicate multiple systems destroyed in recent strikes across regions including Bryansk, Donetsk and Zaporizhzhia. Analysts say the loss of such systems could further expose critical infrastructure to future attacks.

Separately, Russian opposition figures have published allegations concerning a prominent state media figure, claiming undisclosed foreign ties and property holdings. The claims could add to domestic criticism of elite behaviour during wartime.

Economic indicators continue to show strain. Russia’s largest steel producer reported a sharp fall in net profit, while agricultural machinery sales declined significantly due to reduced demand and excess inventory. Analysts say these trends reflect broader pressures across key sectors.

At the same time, reports have emerged accusing Russian-linked networks of recruiting foreign nationals under false employment promises before directing them towards military service. Russian officials have denied responsibility, attributing the activity to private intermediaries.

The European Union has approved a loan package of approximately €90 billion (about $98 billion) for Ukraine, alongside additional sanctions on Russia. Spain also announced further military and financial assistance during a recent visit to Kyiv.

Despite mounting economic and military pressure, Russian officials continue to present an optimistic assessment of the war effort, claiming progress on the battlefield.

Russian Propagandist Solovyov Accused of Secret US Family

A prominent Russian state television host, Vladimir Solovyov, has been accused by opposition figures of maintaining a secret family in the United States, raising fresh questions about the conduct of influential figures within Russia’s political and media establishment.

According to materials published by Russian opposition sources, Solovyov is alleged to have had a long term relationship with a partner based in the United States, with whom he reportedly has children. The claims state that the children were born in the United States, granting them American citizenship.

The report also alleges that Solovyov travelled regularly to the United States prior to the full scale invasion of Ukraine, despite his public role as a leading critic of Western governments and policies. Flight records cited by the opposition are said to show frequent visits over several years.

In addition, the investigation claims that property linked to Solovyov’s partner includes a high value residence in a gated coastal development. The ownership structure reportedly obscures direct links, with documentation indicating the property may be registered under third party or state affiliated arrangements.

The allegations have not been independently verified, and Solovyov has not publicly responded to the claims.

Solovyov is widely known as one of the most prominent figures in Russian state media, frequently hosting programmes that support Kremlin policy and criticise Western countries. He has been a vocal advocate of Russia’s actions in Ukraine and has often used strong rhetoric against the United States and its allies.