为缓解预算压力，俄罗斯计划提高增值税并扩大征税范围

Group 1 - The Russian government plans to increase the value-added tax (VAT) from 20% to 22% in the 2026 budget to fund the war efforts, which will significantly impact consumer prices as VAT is a core component of the tax system covering nearly all goods and services [3] - The government aims to balance the need for increased military spending with social obligations, promising to fulfill all social policy commitments while prioritizing defense and security [3] - Military and security expenditures now account for 40% of total state spending, a significant increase of nearly 25 percentage points compared to pre-conflict levels, indicating a substantial financial commitment to the war [3] Group 2 - The Russian economy experienced a temporary boost due to war-related activities, with the military-industrial complex benefiting from increased government orders, although this has led to rising economic pressures on ordinary citizens [4] - The Russian Prime Minister forecasts a GDP growth of 1.3% in 2026, with an overall growth of approximately 7% over the next three years, while inflation rates are expected to decrease to 4% by the end of 2026 [8] - Despite the government's assurance that VAT on essential goods like food, medicine, and children's products will remain at 10%, prices for these necessities continue to rise due to supply chain disruptions and currency depreciation [8]