Capital flight increased, inflation increased, and the ruble fell by more than 50%. Analysts have argued that sanctions are at least one factor contributing to the economic situation in Russia. The Russian economy is contracting. The government responded to the sanctions by increasing the cost of goods in local currency, causing inflation and reducing the quality of goods available locally in Russia. The country is dependent on imports and had to ask for assistance from the Commonwealth of Independent States. This decreased competition and allowed competitors to increase their own