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Russia’s Economy Falters as Companies Enter Survival Mode, Ukrainian Intelligence Reports
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![Photo of Ivan Khomenko]( "Photo of Ivan Khomenko")
Russian businesses are increasingly facing severe financial strain, with many entering what intelligence agencies describe as a “survival mode,” according to the Foreign Intelligence Service of Ukraine (SZRU) on November 5.
According to SZRU’s assessment for the third quarter of 2025, the primary challenges for Russian companies include delayed payments from partners, declining demand, and a shortage of working capital.
Nearly 39% of enterprises reported payment delays, up from 25% a year earlier. Demand for goods and services has fallen for 34% of businesses, while 32% face liquidity shortages.
The intelligence service also noted a rise in logistical problems—15% of companies reported disruptions, compared to 10% earlier this year. In response, 68% of firms have begun cutting expenses, primarily administrative costs (80%) and service expenditures (37%). Another 15% have suspended investment programs and postponed expansion plans.
Business leaders surveyed described the overall economic environment as “difficult and uncertain.” Even the expected reduction of Russia’s key interest rate in 2026 has failed to inspire confidence. Instead of focusing on growth, most companies are prioritizing financial stability and basic operations.
Analysts say the surge in unpaid invoices—from 25% to nearly 39%—reflects a deepening recession in Russia’s corporate sector.
If the trend continues, it may evolve into a systemic economic crisis, underscoring the cumulative impact of sanctions, capital shortages, and declining domestic consumption.
Earlier, Alexander Kharichev, a senior official in the Russian Presidential Administration, warned that Russia faces a potential civil war, elite decay, and societal collapse due to rising internal tensions.
In an article published by RANEPA, he cited demographic decline, loss of trust in government, and “dehumanization” as key threats, while defending the war against Ukraine as a way to preserve Russian sovereignty.
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