Since the fateful events of February 2022, the European Union has embarked on an unparalleled political project to cripple Russia’s ability to wage war on Ukraine, hoping the persistent pressure would eventually force the aggressor to concede defeat. After 20 rounds of economic sanctions, carefully designed to inflict the maximum pain, the ultimate goal remains stubbornly elusive. Moscow continues its brutal bombardment and refuses to make one single concession at the negotiating table. And yet, there is a sense of vindication. In the past few months, growing signs of strain in the Russian economy have begun to tarnish the image…