Russia’s Struggling Economy and War Tactics in Ukraine

Despite claims from its leadership that the current recession will “not stand,” observable signs point to an economy strained by ongoing conflict, sanctions, and internal corruption. Inflation continues to deplete stores and burden families, with basic goods like potatoes—once plentiful—now nearly tripling in price, forcing rationing and highlighting economic distress.

Eleven months into its invasion of Ukraine, Russia has gained less territory than in 2022 and escalated its tactics to indiscriminate strikes on civilian areas, including residential buildings, hospitals, and playgrounds. These attacks, condemned by the international community, are reminiscent of acts of terror, targeting innocent civilians in a brutal effort to intimidate and demoralize.

One tragic example is the killing of a 1-year-old child by a Russian drone in Kherson, part of a pattern of what the UN is investigating as crimes against humanity. Russia’s campaign has also led to shortages of essential supplies; potatoes, a staple, are now considered a luxury, with prices soaring, reflecting a collapsing economy caused by war and mismanagement.

The initial expectation that the conflict would quickly resolve has not been realized. Instead, Russia has lost significant ground and now relies heavily on external support, especially from China, which supplies over 90% of the components in Russia’s military drones. Moscow’s ambitions of nuclear threat projection are diminished, with leaders like Xi Jinping making clear that nuclear use is off the table, reducing Russia to an international pariah seeking aid from Iran and North Korea.

Throughout the conflict, Russia’s internal stability is further undermined. The government has ceased releasing population data amid a demographic crisis, and its cultural and religious institutions are viewed as tools of state power rather than genuine faith communities. The Russian Orthodox Church, for example, is seen as an extension of government interests, complicating Ukraine’s efforts to counter espionage and sabotage during wartime.

Ultimately, Russia remains a declining empire driven more by rage and a desire for dominance than true strength. The conflict’s toll is staggering: casualties surpass one million, and innocent lives continue to be lost in the pursuit of a largely unachievable goal. The world must confront the reality that Russia’s foundation is fundamentally corrupt and fragile, and the consequences of ignoring these warnings could be dire.