German weekly Der Spiegel published a sensational article in which experts criticize the Kremlin's economic strategy. The main thesis of the publication sounds like a verdict: Vladimir Putin, who has never positioned himself as an economist, began making decisions that harm his own country.
The Illusion of Competence
Experts note that the President of Russia often takes on the role of the main strategist in issues requiring deep professional preparation. However, the lack of appropriate background leads to the fact that measures intended to strengthen the national economy turn out to be counterproductive in practice.
The Boomerang Effect
The term "shooting oneself in the foot" in the article's headline is not just a metaphor. It refers to real economic processes where isolationist policy, sanctions, and the reorientation of trade flows create a vicious circle. Instead of growth and stability, the country faces a shortage of technologies, capital flight, and a decline in the standard of living.
Why is this important?
Criticism from German analysts is backed by data: inflation, declining investment attractiveness, and dependence on raw material exports — all these are consequences of decisions made at the very top. If Russia could previously rely on resources and geopolitical influence, now it has to pay for past mistakes.
Ultimately, the question is not who is right, but how long the economy can withstand pressure. The answer to it is currently unknown, but warning signals are already sounding louder than ever.