On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice
Denis Maksimov, a baker from suburban Moscow, shot to prominence after a direct appeal to President Vladimir Putin during his annual call-in show in December, highlighting the growing strain on Russia's small businesses.
His bakery, Mashenka, named after his eldest daughter, became a symbol of the economic pressures now gripping Russia.
Speaking via video, Maksimov implored Putin to address new tax reforms, which he warned were significantly increasing the burden on enterprises like his.
"We understand very well that it’s not an easy situation for the country. We understand that raising taxes is necessary," Maksimov stated. "We’re looking ahead without optimism, frankly speaking. Many (businesses) will close down."
Indeed, as the full-scale invasion of Ukraine reaches its four-year mark, the mounting pressure on Russia’s economy is becoming increasingly evident.
Continue Reading on The Independent
This preview shows approximately 15% of the article. Read the full story on the publisher's website to support quality journalism.