Russia’s central bank cuts interest rate to 17% to boost slowing economy; deficit widens, inflation rising

Russia’s central bank lowered its key interest rate to 17% to stimulate the slowing economy, even as elevated inflation persists at 8.2%. This decision reflects the challenge of balancing economic support during wartime with the need to control rising prices. Increased government spending on the conflict in Ukraine has widened the budget deficit, adding further complexity.