Russian consumers pay military bill - Eastern Express - TVP WORLD

Russia’s economy is stalling, and the Kremlin’s solution is to shift the war’s costs onto its own citizens. Facing slowing growth, falling revenues, and persistent inflation, Moscow plans tax hikes and austerity measures that will squeeze consumers and small businesses alike. The VAT increase and new burdens on entrepreneurs are designed to funnel resources into defense spending, even as civilian services shrink. On paper, defense spending may look stable, but hidden outlays ensure the military still dominates the budget. This episode of Eastern Express breaks down how the Kremlin’s war machine thrives while Russian society foots the bill.