Russian elite in growing fear: Ukrainian drone strikes and economic woes drive desire to flee
Russia's elite are increasingly worried about their future due to Ukrainian attacks deep into Russian territory and mounting economic problems, sources say. Authorities are even discussing confiscating bank deposits.
Russia's wealthy and influential circles are gripped by rising anxiety, reports The Washington Post. The main cause is the Ukrainian military's effective use of drones, which can strike targets up to 2,000 kilometers from the border. Oil refineries, fuel depots, and military infrastructure are being destroyed, leading to a fuel crisis across the country.
The economic situation is deteriorating. War costs are soaring, the budget deficit is growing, and falling oil prices after the end of the war in Iran add further pressure. In response, authorities are discussing unpopular measures, including the potential confiscation of bank deposits. "Everyone is thinking about how to withdraw their money and leave," a Moscow businessman told journalists.
A former senior financial official says complete uncertainty prevails among the elite, with a feeling that the story has no happy ending. A source close to diplomatic circles notes that people no longer feel safe as the war knocks on their doors. He emphasizes that there are not enough air defense systems.
Another source adds that the authorities were unprepared for Ukraine's rapid development of the drone industry. There is a shortage of air defense to protect infrastructure, and no one knows how to quickly ramp up production. The situation is worsened by the Kremlin's extreme reluctance to acknowledge problems – officials avoid reporting bad news to Putin. Despite everything, Putin appears determined to continue the devastating war, and sources predict a new escalation.
