Overview

• The latest wiiw forecast projects 2.5% growth for Russia in 2026, contingent on continued US sanctions relief and détente.
• Major international firms like Renault, Hyundai, Samsung, and LG are resuming or considering operations in Russia, signaling renewed corporate interest.
• Ukraine’s economy remains in severe crisis due to infrastructure destruction, labor shortages, and the displacement of millions of people.
• Donald Trump’s proposed raw-materials deal for Ukraine raises concerns about turning the country into a US-controlled economic dependency.
• Eastern EU and West Balkan economies are expected to grow robustly, with Poland leading at 3.5% and West Balkan states around 3% annually.