Russia Seen “In Denial” As Economy Stagnates -- Rob Garver, The Fiscal Times

Hobbled by international sanctions, low energy prices and a currency that has lost much of its value in the past year, the Russian economy will likely see virtually no economic growth through 2017, according to the country’s central bank.

The country’s faltering economy raises questions about how long Russian President Vladimir Putin can maintain his current sky-high favorability rating with the Russian people in the face of increased economic privation.

The Russian leader is currently in a double bind: the very thing that is insulating him from negative public opinion about the economy is contributing to making the economy worse. - See more at:

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My Comment: Thee economy has always been Putin's Achilles Heel .... and the economy is now facing a recession. If the economy is still in the doldrums this time next year .... political opposition to Putin will start to grow (if not sooner).