Russia: Budget deficit rises to $81 billion

Moscow, August 15 (Petra) – The budget deficit has risen to $81
billion, an increase of over $9 billion in just one month, amid
rising government spending and increasing pressure on public
finances.

In a statement issued Saturday, the Russian Finance Ministry
announced that total government expenditures have risen to
approximately $359 billion, contributing to the widening budget gap.

Pressure on public revenues continues, particularly with the decline
in oil and gas sector revenues this year, the Ministry explained.

//Petra// AK