Vladimir Putin Blames West for Plight of Russian Economy

The transcript covers the volatility of the ruble following Putin's speech, highlighting his mixed messages about the central bank and blaming the West for economic issues. Putin uses a bear metaphor to describe Russia's situation and suggests economic hardship could last two years. The discussion shifts to Ukraine, Merkel's influence, and the EU summit's focus on Russia and Greece's political challenges.

What does Putin attribute 25-35% of the economic crisis to?

• Global oil prices

• Western sanctions

• Internal Russian policies

• Central bank decisions

How does Putin metaphorically describe Russia in his speech?

• As an eagle

• As a wolf

• As a bear

• As a lion

What is the expected duration of economic hardship mentioned by Putin?

• Five years

• Three years

• Two years

• One year

What is the main focus of Merkel's popularity in Germany?

• Her stance on immigration

• Her environmental initiatives

• Her economic policies

• Her relationship with Putin

What is the EU's stance on sanctions related to Russia?

• Sanctions need to have some teeth

• Sanctions should be lifted immediately

• Sanctions are unnecessary

• Sanctions should be reduced gradually