A woman walks past commercial premises put up for rent and sale in Moscow on February 10, 2023. – Real estate analysts say the housing market in Russia has been on a rollercoaster ride since Russians panicked when sanctions over the country’s military action in Ukraine hit and then adjusted to their new reality. First, prices spiked as home-owners sought to secure their savings when the penalties hit. Then they dropped as tens of thousands Russians opposed to the conflict and worried for their futures up and left. President Putin insists Russia is weathering the Western sanctions. A home-grown brand has replaced McDonald’s and supermarkets are offering Russian-made drinks to replace foreign brands like Coca Cola, which left Russia last year. Still, Russia’s economy is facing mounting problems as the West — one year into the conflict — is building on its sanctions program with a 10th EU package looming. Hundreds of foreign companies have exited, leaving behind emptying shopping malls, while inflation, which stands at around 12 percent, has undermined the purchasing power of Russian wages. (Photo by NATALIA KOLESNIKOVA / AFP)