Putin says Russia's GDP down 1.8 pct in 1st two months of 2026

Russia's gross domestic product (GDP) has decreased 1.8 percent in the first two months of 2026, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Wednesday. "Overall, GDP fell by 1.8 percent in January-February," Putin said during a meeting on economic issues, adding that calendar and weather factors are among the reasons for the decline in GDP.

He further said that the trend in the manufacturing sector, overall industrial production and construction has turned negative, stressing the importance of maintaining a balanced budget for Russia and ensuring fiscal stability.