Everyday Life of Russians Amid Western Sanctions

10 Niger soldiers lost their lives in militant attacks according to the government report.
The couple from Mytishchi illustrates how Russians are managing despite sanctions.
Moscow’s economy has shown adaptation by shifting trade towards ‘friendly’ nations like China.
Ordinary Russians continue to find ways to maintain their daily lives amidst changing circumstances.
Inflation remains a concern with rates running high above the central bank’s target.

Russian Citizens Adjust to Life Under Sanctions

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine is certainly reshaping life in Russia as Western sanctions continue to impact the economy. Common citizens, however, seem to be adapting, as seen in the case of Sergei Duzhikov and Maria Tyabut, a couple living comfortably in Mytishchi, a town just outside Moscow. Maria, who works in cosmetics, shared that her everyday life remains largely untouched by these sanctions, particularly in terms of essentials like food and leisure activities. The couple drives a Chinese car—a response to supply chain issues—and enjoys domestic goods such as Russian-made Camembert cheese. Maria mentions that there are no brands that have left a void significant enough for her to miss. Supermarkets, reacting to the sanctions, have found substitutes for popular Western products. “I haven’t really noticed any drastic changes,” she said, reflecting a sentiment echoed by many locals who are still enjoying varied options in their daily shopping.

Travel and Brands: What Changed for Russians

The reality, of course, is a bit more complex beneath the surface. While major brands like McDonald’s exited the market, Russians have adjusted, and some have even turned to the substitutes that have taken their place. As for Maria’s experience, she mentions that a recent replacement yogurt, previously made by the French company Danone, has earned her approval. Additionally, Sergei points out that despite the loss of convenience like waiting months for car parts due to sanctions, he is satisfied with the alternatives available now. Travel remains a challenge as many European countries tightened restrictions on Russian citizens. Nonetheless, Maria and Sergei recently enjoyed a vacation in Venezuela, which they describe as filled with friendly locals. The couple’s experience underscores a broader resilience in the face of economic challenges, as they navigate life amid significant geopolitical tensions. It seems that ordinary Russians are finding their paths forward, albeit with some adjustments.

Economic Growth Amid Inflation Concerns

Looking at the broader picture, the Russian economy is navigating a tricky course amid the fallout from the Ukraine invasion, marked by significant state spending on defense. Reports indicate economic growth for this year and the next, primarily driven by state spending, but there are increasing signs of market volatility which analysts warn indicates a slowdown is coming. Inflation rates remain concerning, having run high for an extended period and above the central bank’s target, which adds pressure on households like Maria and Sergei’s who are managing their budgets carefully but are not yet feeling desperate. With a combined income significantly above average, they feel relatively secure, even with rising prices, as Maria said. “It’s not like we used to buy a kilogram of buckwheat three years ago, and now we can only afford 600 grams,” she explained. This pragmatic optimism highlights how many ordinary Russians grasp the realities of a changing economy, while still finding ways to cope and adjust.

While Western sanctions have reshaped the economic landscape in Russia, ordinary citizens like Sergei and Maria continue to find ways to adapt. From switching brands to exploring local alternatives, they illustrate a certain resilience amidst challenges. Ultimately, despite strained supply chains and inflationary pressures, they have managed to maintain a comfortable lifestyle while navigating the complexities of living under sanctions.