As Putin’s wartime economy loses steam, workers at an empty mall fear for future
By Zahra Ullah
Published on May 2, 2026.
Russia's economy is showing signs of strain, with GDP contracting by 1.8% in the first two months of 2026. Despite a surge in military spending and increased oil exports, Russia’s economy has been slowing. Russian President Vladimir Putin acknowledged this in a government meeting on economic affairs in mid-April, demanding officials to explain why macroeconomic indicators are falling short of expectations. The leader of Russia's Communist Party, Gennady Zyuganov, criticised the government's lack of competent responses, calling it “sad and disturbing” and warned of a Bolshevik-style revolution if the government fails to address the weakening economy. While there have been no signs of mass social unrest in Russia, other shopping malls like Goodzone in Moscow appear to be performing well.
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