Opinion

Putin has run out of moves

The broad consensus among Russia-watchers is that the country is facing a prolonged bout of stagflation. Growth this year is unlikely to exceed 1%, and inflation is still stuck at 6% (or more). Moreover, the most promising option for reviving the economy is the least likely to be pursued, because it requires President Vladimir Putin's willingness to end the war in Ukraine. The downside risks are legion. Russian troops have barely advanced in Ukraine this year, and Russia cannot spend more on i