Worldscope

  Russia's War Economy This report provides an objective analysis of the Russian economy's adaptation to the ongoing war, examining key trends, the impact of international sanctions, and government policy responses. Forecasts and potential future scenarios are explored based solely on economic factors, without political views. Executive Summary Defying initial predictions of collapse following the invasion of Ukraine and subsequent international sanctions, the Russian economy has shown resilience. While avoiding a severe contraction and recording growth in subsequent years, the economic landscape is increasingly dictated by wartime demands. This has created a complex picture: unexpected stability in some areas coexists with significant vulnerabilities like rising inflation and labor shortages. Key drivers include substantial military spending, the persistent impact of sanctions, and multifaceted government economic policies. This analysis delves into these factors, their effect...

  A Brief Analysis of France's Nuclear Deterrent France holds a unique position as the sole nuclear-armed state within the European Union following the UK's departure. This status underscores its strategic importance in European security. The nation's nuclear deterrent, the Force de Dissuasion , is deeply intertwined with its identity as an independent global power, a view widely supported across the political spectrum and by the public. Currently, the deterrent relies on sea- and air-based systems, after land-based missiles were decommissioned. Historical Roots: The Quest for Autonomy France's nuclear ambitions emerged post-World War II, building on early scientific achievements by figures like Marie Curie and Frédéric Joliot-Curie. The Commissariat à l'énergie atomique (CEA), established in 1945 initially for energy needs, laid the technical groundwork, including plutonium extraction. Early collaboration with Israeli scientists also proved crucial. The formal dec...