Performing compared to what? There is no carefully crafted narrative by the media. Since when are you into conspiracy stuff?
Reporting what Russia says about the Ruble, that it's worth 45% more than it used to against dollars, gets readers, just like your story! I just wish you'd use your brain here--sorry if that's offensive, but really Grant!
Did you know that Russia is charging interest on dollar savings by Russian citizens in Russian banks; that is, Russia is literally stealing their money through fees (at a rate of 1% per month). They say it's for corporations, but it's for everyone with assets over $10,000. https://www.reuters.com/markets/europe/russias-tinkoff-charge-monthly-1-fee-fx-accounts-reduce-exposure-2022-06-09/
So if you're a Russian you can either exchange your dollars for rubles or let them do it for you ;)
What would it mean for you if you worked in Russia as a Medium writer. You get paid $1,000 (in rubles) for your stories in March. Every March you buy a new $1,000 laptop. If the ruble doubles you get the laptop for half off, right? Sure, IF you could exchange your rubles. If that’s a real exchange rate, wouldn't everyone in Russia use their stronger rubles to buy tons of stuff? Why aren't they?
They aren't because there is a real-world exchange rate and an artificial one that can be set by the nation behind the currency.
Now let's look at it another way. When Russia goes to sell it's oil/gas how much does it get in dollars? You tell me.
The sanctions are working. They are working exceptionally well, but it will take time because the people they need to hurt have a lot of money. The average Russian isn't hurting because they mostly need gas and food to live, which Russia can produce.
Ruble up, ruble down--doesn't really matter in the end. If you're a Russian with a Mercedes and you need a new oxygen sensor, well, your story will make them laugh (while they cry).
The pressure in Russia increases by the minute, more and more as things break down and Russians can't buy what they need--no matter what the government says their ruble is worth.
