The data seem to confirm the boom. The government claims that real disposable income increased by 8.4 percent. In the first quarter of 2025, the number of people living in poverty allegedly fell by 2 million, to 8.1 percent. the population of the country. The average monthly salary reached 97 thousand. rubles (PLN 4,000 457). The verdict seems clear: the Russians live in abundance.
However, reality paints a completely different picture. 38 percent Russians have no savings. Another 24 percent It could only survive a month or two without payout. Every third Russian cannot afford basic drugs. What does it result from?
Financial advisors say that every household should have a reserve to cover six to twelve months of expenses. Only seven percent It would be able to save a sufficient amount for half a year, and only six percent. for a longer period. These savings would only be enough to cover basic needs, not for a prosperous life. Even a few lucky ones rarely saved more than half of their annual income.
Perhaps the Russians just forgot how to save? I don't think so. For two decades, the Russians had to spend about 30 percent. your food income. As remuneration increases, this share should decrease. However, this did not happen. In developed countries, food accounts for less than 20 percent. household budget. In the United States and Singapore it is below seven percent.
Continuation of the material under the video
Basic salary in the amount of 97 thousand rubles (PLN 4,000 457) – is not stunning. Serbia, which is difficult to consider as an economic power, currently has a higher average net salary.
The beneficiaries of wage growth in Russia are already wealthy people. Inequality returned to the level of post -Soviet times, and the income only in 2023 achieved the level of 2013.
No wonder that every third Russian cannot afford basic drugs. Doctors adapted to the situation, prescribing the wonderful properties of oak bark for cancer or lanceolate grandmother for anxiety. This is similar to the old Soviet joke, in which doctors recommended rich patients eating fruit, middle -class patients eating vegetables, and poor walks. Fresh air may soon appear again on prescriptions.
The rich become richer, the poor poorer
And what about the unprecedented increase in income about which state media trumpets about? It is also misleading. If you take a closer look, you can see that the contract is well paid for the contract They must spend their salaries on their own uniforms and bribes for commanders. What remains is enough for holidays by the sea or several gifts for family members. Even cars delivered to loved ones they leave in this life are not a sign of wealth in the 21st century.
These allegedly wealthy couriers work for 14-16 hours of changes without interruptions. If they were limited to normal working hours, their salary would drop to 60,000. rubles (PLN 2,000 758).
Meanwhile, the rich are thriving. The number of Russian billionaires increased from 100 to 146 in one yearand most of them increased their fortunes. Tymous officials, legislators and their entourage are similarly comfortable, not even counting the huge unofficial income obtained thanks to corruption.
The scheme is unchanged: The rich become richer, poor poorer, and the rest stick to appearances, often falling into debts.
For two years, economists have been wondering if President Vladimir Putin can afford his war, and it seems that the answer is affirmative. However, in 1988 the Soviet Union could also afford war. Tanks came off the production tapes until the very end. However, he could not meet the needs of his own citizens – hence the empty store shelves that accelerated his fall.
Putin will always find money for his war. However, it is not certain whether he will find money for his own nation. Unlike Mikhail, Gorbachev is not resisting before using violence to maintain control. Will he do it when – and not if – the shelves begin to empty?
I’m Ashley Davis as an editor, I’m committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity and accuracy in every piece we publish. My work is driven by curiosity, a passion for truth, and a belief that journalism plays a crucial role in shaping public discourse. I strive to tell stories that not only inform but also inspire action and conversation.
