https://www.express.co.uk/news/world/2161492/russia-economy-putin-demands-more-taxes/amp

As Russia's wartime economy continues to overheat, Vladimir Putin has ordered a "significant increase" in tax collection and compliance. Following a meeting of Russia's Council for Strategic Development and National Projects in early December, the Kremlin announced that a share of the increase will come from Value Added Tax (VAT), which rose from 20% to 22% on January 1.

According to Stubb, Russia’s “gains” are a disaster in disguise. Sure, 20% of Ukraine’s territory—but for what? About a million casualties and a shrinking sphere of influence. Central Asian and Caucasus regions are distancing themselves.

Now factor in the economy: Stubb warned of inflation nearing 30%, interest rates at 16%, zero growth, and no reserves. Stubb’s bottom line: Russia can’t afford to end the war because it can’t pay soldiers after. Overheating? More like burning out.

Finnish president says Ukraine war a 'strategic disaster' for Putin

1 minute ago, LosLobo said:

Overheating? More like burning out.

whereas The Ukrainian economy is totally financed by Europe / big Daddy (uncle Sam)

and is doing fine 😋

40 minutes ago, johng said:

whereas The Ukrainian economy is totally financed by Europe / big Daddy (uncle Sam)

and is doing fine 😋

If helping others is so upsetting for you, that’s usually a sign you’ve never done it.

On 1/23/2026 at 7:52 PM, LosLobo said:

If helping others is so upsetting for you, that’s usually a sign you’ve never done it.

That's a misleading and unfair comment and does not address any reason for this tragic war. Have you ever been to Ukraine? Russia? actually studied the history? (no need to answer it is obvious).

1 hour ago, bangadang said:

That's a misleading and unfair comment and does not address any reason for this tragic war. Have you ever been to Ukraine? Russia? actually studied the history? (no need to answer it is obvious).

If Russia is such a great place, why don’t you move there?