Russian President Vladimir Putin has outlined ambitious plans to improve living standards in Russia over the next six years, but analysts warn that these promises may not be feasible within the current budget constraints.
Putin made these pledges during his annual state-of-the-nation address, just two weeks before Russia’s presidential election, where he is expected to secure another term.
Putin’s proposed initiatives, which include significant investments in public infrastructure, healthcare, and efforts to boost birth rates and life expectancy, could cost Russia an estimated $130 billion more than its current budget allows.
Putin (Credits: Hindustan Times)
The largest proposed investments include 4.5 trillion rubles (approximately $49 billion) for infrastructure upgrades and 1 trillion rubles for hospital construction and renovation.
In a bid to address demographic challenges, Putin has also proposed a 75 billion ruble plan to increase birth rates and life expectancy. He previously urged Russians to have more children to ensure the survival of the ethnic Russian population.
However, critics argue that Putin’s promises may be overly optimistic, given Russia’s economic challenges and the strain of international sanctions.
The Russian economy has faced difficulties in recent years, including low oil prices and sanctions imposed by Western countries following Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014.
Despite these challenges, Putin remains popular in Russia, and his promises to improve living standards could bolster his support ahead of the upcoming election. However, analysts warn that achieving these goals may require significant adjustments to the country’s budget or economic policies.
