Russia's economy is in a state of stagnation, with the country's oil empire under pressure due to the ongoing war with Ukraine. The Ukrainian attacks on Russian fossil fuel infrastructure have led to a series of consequences, including long lines for gasoline and a decline in production. The usually optimistic President Vladimir Putin is now admitting to the problem, as the impact of the war is felt by the average Russian. The situation is particularly dire in regions where the distribution of gasoline is controlled by a few large companies, leading to shortages and long lines. The comparison to the Soviet Union is not entirely accurate, as the Russian economy is still a market economy, but the monopolization and regulation of the market are creating similar effects. The Russian government is spending a lot of money to prop up the military and its war in Ukraine, and the economy is struggling to adjust to the sanctions and the war's impact. The relationship with China is growing stronger, and Russia may be becoming dependent on Chinese technology and support. The war is not expected to end soon, and the price of continuing it is high, but the Russian economy is not expected to collapse anytime soon. The options for Mr. Putin to get the economy out of the doldrums are limited, and the war's impact on the average Russian is likely to increase.
