Part 10/13:
These economic stressors are disproportionately felt by the middle and working classes, many of whom see their purchasing power eroding as inflation persists. Russia’s elites, especially corporate figures like the Luke Oil co-founder, are feeling the heat too, evidenced by forced sell-offs and bailouts. For example, some major Russian companies are divesting assets or are bailed out by the government, illustrating the deep financial instability within the country’s fledgling post-sanctions economy.