Fact check: Russia is getting weaker every day. Its economy is collapsing. Its currency is crashing.

1. Summary of the results

1. Summary of the results

The statement oversimplifies a complex economic situation. While Russia faces significant challenges, including currency depreciation (ruble at 110 against USD as of November 2024) and high inflation (8.4% in October), the economy is showing resilience in several areas. GDP grew 3.6% in 2023 and is projected to grow 3.2% in 2024, with strong performance in sectors like trade (6.8% growth), finance (8.7% growth), and construction (6.6% growth).

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

The original statement omits crucial context about Russia's "two-tier economy" where war-related businesses are thriving while other sectors struggle. Support from allies like China and India has helped Russia weather sanctions better than Western analysts initially predicted. High oil prices and increased military spending are actually driving economic activity in certain sectors. Labor shortages, rather than economic collapse, are currently constraining production capacity.

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The statement appears to reflect a Western narrative that benefits NATO countries and Ukraine's supporters by portraying Russia as economically defeated. Terms like "collapsing" and "getting weaker every day" are emotionally charged exaggerations that don't align with economic data. While Russia faces serious challenges, including double-digit interest rates (21%) and significant inflation, the IMF and Russian Ministry of Economic Development data show an economy under strain but not collapse. The International Monetary Fund, an independent global institution, expects continued modest growth of around 1.5% annually through 2027, contradicting the collapse narrative.