Sanctions are draining Russia's economy - and are likely costing Putin close allies. Three people's banks in China stopped payment transactions with Russia.
If all Chinese banks stop accepting yuan payments from Russia, it would pose a major problem for Russia. The behavior of the allies would indicate that Russia wants to radiate great self-confidence to the outside world. However, there are always concerns about the economic situation. Russia'seconomy faces an uncertain future. With material from with material from the Wilson Center.