Russia
Russia: authoritarian state under economic strain, hit by fuel shortages, sanctions and Ukrainian strikes
Reporting describes Russia as a state led by Vladimir Putin, who has presided over authoritarian consolidation since 2000. Some accounts say unauthorised political opposition has been removed by imprisonment or emigration.
Multiple sources report an acute, nationwide fuel crisis that intensified in 2026. Ukrainian strikes and drones are reported to have struck hundreds of targets inside Russia, with one report citing 697 hits and claims that drones operate as far as the Urals. Authorities have restricted fuel sales, banned most exports of gasoline, jet fuel and diesel, and regional governors have sought federal assistance. Queues and rationing have been reported in Moscow, St Petersburg and many regions, with some reporting shortages in over 90% of regions.
Economic pressure runs alongside the energy shock. Reporting notes a VAT rise to 22% in January 2026, falling global oil prices that reduced budget income, and a fall in interest rates from 21% in 2024 to about 14.25% by June. International measures also affect Russia: the EU has banned aluminium imports, and US Treasury rules bar dealings with the Central Bank of the Russian Federation while OFAC issues licences and General License 13R to govern certain tax and exit payments by US persons.
- Vladimir Putin has presided over authoritarian consolidation since 2000; reporting says opposition has been jailed or exiled
- Widespread fuel shortages and rationing reported, including queues in Moscow and St Petersburg
- Ukraine has struck hundreds of targets inside Russia, one source reporting 697 hits; drones are reported as far east as the Urals
- Russian authorities banned most gasoline, jet fuel and diesel exports; regional governors have requested federal aid
- Economic strain: VAT raised to 22% in Jan 2026; falling oil prices reduced budget income; interest rates fell from 21% to 14.25%
- Sanctions and controls: EU banned Russian aluminium imports; OFAC bars US dealings with Russia's central bank and issues licences for certain tax and exit payments
Synthesised from 40 sourced claims across our published briefings.
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