Of course, Russia is suffering from sanctions. But it is war. The economy is working very differently during wars. A 12% recession is OK if it is the correct number. It is hard to trust any number during the war, especially from this country.
The point is that the sanctions that were ordered by the US have not caused hyperinflation or depression in Russia and there hasn't been a coup either.
Russian tourists abroad are starting to complain that there is a new coffee preparation method being used on them - "russiano" - they order a coffee and it is spat into before being served.
'Russian Salad' on the menu at NATO summit cafe in Madrid raises eyebrows The dish's attractively high carb content appeared to trump its questionable name however, and it reportedly sold out within hours. https://www.reuters.com/world/europ...ummit-cafe-madrid-raises-eyebrows-2022-06-28/
They should serve them coffee with novichok. It would taste more Russian. They would feel more at home.
German chancellor says many thought the world moved past countries trying to conquer their neighbors but that 'agreement is now canceled by Putin https://www.businessinsider.com/ola...ea-that-nations-wont-conquer-neighbors-2022-7
There was also a gentleman's agreement that wars would be fought with armies and not assassins going for leaders so much so maybe time to look at that again.
As with all wars there are rapid practical tech adaptations. This storage heating is very familiar on a smaller scale to any countries that had day and cheaper night rate electricity but scaled up it will reduce gas heating. Not mentioned here but there is a similar system that uses a new solar panel designed to be efficient at making electricity at IR heat wavelengths that's very promising and operates at grid scale. This has to be done anyway for climate change and sooner the better. Climate change: 'Sand battery' could solve green energy's big problem https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-61996520
Ukrainian flag arrives in Snake Island after Russian retreat https://www.theguardian.com/world/2...aised-over-snake-island-after-russian-retreat