For many Russians, higher utility bills are latest inflation shock
Utility bills in Russia have risen more than 50% since the start of the war in Ukraine in 2022 and more than 13% this year alone.
In Moscow, a reality check hit history teacher Polina Ibragimova when her utility bill arrived, totaling more than half of her monthly salary. Initially, the 34-year-old mother of two suspected her children may have indulged in prolonged bathing sessions. Upon closer examination, it was clear that the culprit was a significant surge in utility tariffs.
As Russia navigates the challenges of inflation stemming from a wartime economy, coupled with a tight labor market and increased military spending, the impact of these rising costs is becoming more apparent for everyday households like Ibragimova's. These financial strains are now manifesting in daily expenses and utility bills, highlighting the mounting difficulties faced by many Russians in a rapidly changing economic landscape.
Written by urgent.news from Japan Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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