Since Moscow’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Russia’s economy has surpassed expectations. But some experts say this image of resilience is a mirage crafted by the Kremlin.

DEEP DIVE — Nearly three years into its costly war against Ukraine, Russia’s economy is faltering under the strain of sanctions, inflation, and high borrowing costs. While Western hopes that the sanctions would bring economic collapse proved premature, the cumulative toll is now evident.