Russia’s economy was struggling even before it was hit with western sanctions for annexing Crimea from Ukraine. Despite the downward trend, President Vladimir Putin’s popularity has reached an all-time high on a wave of nationalistic fervor. But analysts say the high numbers are set to drop.
The value of the Russian currency, the ruble, is at a historic low as western sanctions and falling oil prices take a toll on the economy.
But Putin’s approval rating is over 80 percent since Russia annexed Crimea from Ukraine.
The boost came at just the right time, says Lev Gudkov, director of the Levada Center, …read more
Source: Voice of America
