The cost of war: Inside Russia's economic unease
Summary
This episode examines the severe economic strain in Russia caused by the Ukraine war, highlighting fuel shortages, rising inflation, and the collapse of small businesses due to drone attacks on infrastructure. Host Ed Butler interviews former Russian billionaire Sergei Petrov and political scientist Katerina Schulman to discuss the unsustainable nature of government-driven growth, labor shortages, and the growing public anxiety. The discussion also covers the potential for further mobilization, the brain drain of skilled workers, and the political risks facing Vladimir Putin as the state st…
Topics discussed
Sponsors and introduction to BBC Business Daily
Overview of economic struggle in Russia
Impact of drone attacks on fuel and retail
Small business losses and Sochi's decline
Putin's claims vs. economists' analysis
Labor shortages, inflation, and high interest rates
Sponsor segments and return to the report
Interview with exiled billionaire Sergei Petrov
Fuel crisis and the 'Black August' rumors
Rumors of mobilization and border crossings
Risk of social crisis and potential revolution
Internal instability and threats to Putin
Political scientist Katerina Schulman on public mood
Possibility of peace and political survival
Conclusion on authoritarian resilience and coups
Outro and final sponsor segment
Listen ad-free on Castria