A slowing wartime economy pushes the Kremlin to tap consumers for revenue

After two years of robust growth fueled by military spending on the war in Ukraine, Russia’s economy is slowing. Oil revenues are down , the budget deficit is up and defense spending has leveled off.

The Kremlin needs money to keep its finances steady — and it’s clear where President Vladimir Putin intends to get it: at the cash register, from ordinary people and small businesses.