The crisis in relations between Russia and a number of Western countries led by the United States, which began because of the events around Ukraine, led to serious consequences. Along with diplomatic demarches and harsh mutual accusations, economic sanctions began from both sides. As a result of these actions, as well as due to a significant drop in oil prices, the exchange rate of the Russian currency against the US dollar and the Euro has weakened significantly. What is the threat of the fall of the ruble to Russia?
Since the collapse of the USSR, Russia has been closely integrated into the world economy. It sells many types of raw materials abroad, as well as finished products (for example, grain, mineral fertilizers, weapons, rocket engines). At the same time, Russia imports a significant amount of foodstuffs, computer equipment, software for PCs, machine tools, medicines, leases (operating with payment by installments) airplanes, etc. Therefore, the fall of the ruble automatically leads to the fact that it is necessary either to spend more funds to pay for the above items, or to reduce the purchase of imports. In addition, the “weaker” ruble leads to higher prices for imported products. In any case, this negatively affects the standard of living of Russians.
Many millions of our compatriots are accustomed to traveling the world, vacationing in foreign resorts, getting acquainted with the natural and historical sights of different countries. The cost of foreign tours is paid in rubles, at the exchange rate. In addition, it is necessary to purchase some more currency in order to pay for food, excursions, entertainment, souvenirs, etc. directly at the place of rest. And the higher the rate of foreign currency in relation to the ruble, the greater the amount you have to spend for this. Consequently, the fall of the ruble leads to the fact that foreign voyages become less accessible for Russian citizens.
Finally, the fall of the ruble leads to a negative psychological impact on many people, instills in them uncertainty about the future, irritability, and distrust of the policies pursued by the country's leadership. Especially when you consider that some Russians remember well the hardships and hardships in the "crazy 90s", as well as the crisis of 2008, when the ruble also fell sharply and prices for food and industrial goods, and utilities rose.
