Part 5/9:
Economic indicators suggest that this trajectory is unlikely to reverse in the immediate future. Global tariffs and trade wars have diminished economic activity, leading to decreased energy demand. The consequences are stark: Russia's primary revenue source is eroding, and budget forecasts are being wounded by these economic realities.
Parallels with the Soviet Collapse
Like the Soviet Union before them, contemporary Russia is susceptible to a financial crisis borne from falling energy prices. When oil revenues drop, government budgets are unable to meet their projected costs. Russia's stated profit expectation of about $35 per barrel severely contrasts with the reality of recently obtaining only $10, significantly impairing its fiscal capabilities.