Reuters exclusively reports Russia considering at least $6.7 billion spending package to ease discontent

Reuters exclusively reported that Russian authorities are considering a new social spending package worth at least $6.7 billion to address discontent over falling living standards before an autumn election. According to a Reuters source, President Vladimir Putin was likely to unveil the package in an annual speech to senior political figures in coming weeks, follows unsanctioned nationwide protests last month that hit the value of the rouble.