Bear Market Brief The Brief, In Brief
Dec 22, 2025
Sarah Ashbaugh, a research fellow at the Foreign Policy Research Institute and editor-in-chief of an insightful newsletter, delves into pivotal events in Russia over the past year. She reveals trends in energy warfare and drone tactics on the battlefield. The discussion covers the implications of internet restrictions and Russia's economic struggles amid the ongoing war. Additionally, Sarah shares her meticulous process for producing concise news briefs, illustrating her commitment to clarity and accuracy in reporting.
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Drone Warfare Is Reshaping Strategy
- Drone warfare in Ukraine is evolving into a new, large-scale domain shaping future conflict dynamics.
- Combatants are building novel weapons and tactics in real time to counter larger, conventional forces.
Russia's Push For A Sovereign Internet
- Russia is actively restricting internet access and building a 'sovereign internet' to limit citizens' access to foreign news and communication.
- These measures increasingly cut Russians off from global information and overseas contacts.
The War-Propelled Russian Economy
- Russia's economy sits between collapse and strength, propped up today by heavy government war spending.
- Indicators like high inflation and labor shortages coexist with targeted growth from state-backed sectors.