The Russian economy shrank 4.6 percent in the second quarter of 2015, according to official government figures released Aug. 10, the Moscow Times reported. The Russian ruble also weakened, dropping below 64 rubles to the U.S. dollar. The economy, which has been harmed by low oil prices and Western sanctions stemming from the conflict in eastern Ukraine, has slipped into recession for only the second time in President Vladimir Putin’s 15 years in power. The Kremlin is growing concerned that the economic crisis will translate into regional defiance or mass protests . Stratfor provides global awareness and guidance to individuals, governments and businesses around the world. We use a unique, intel-based approach to analyze world affairs. Copyright © 2015 Stratfor Global Intelligence, All rights reserved. Our mailing address is: 221 West 6th Street Suite 400 – Austin, TX 78701, USA unsubscribe from this list update subscription preferences | forward […]