Comrades! Let us cast our gaze upon the latest proclamations from the Ministry of Finance, where Mr. Siluanov attempts to weave a veil of deception over the eyes of the proletariat. He dares to assert that no true 'leap' in fuel prices has occurred, claiming that the increase is merely a trifle at the stations of the great vertically integrated monopolies.

Pray, consider the audacity of this rhetoric! The Minister suggests that while the independent stations—those smaller ventures—may show a rise, the systemic monopolies remain modest. What a cunning trick of the tongue! By admitting that prices are rising in one sector while shielding the giants, the state merely confirms the oppressive nature of the capital that governs our movements. When the correspondent dared to inquire whether the public purse would suffer for the sake of common transport, the Minister dismissed the notion with a wave of his hand, as if the hunger and hardship of the working man were mere statistical errors.

Indeed, the Vice-Premier, Mr. Novak, speaks of a situation that is 'difficult yet controlled.' Controlled! By whom? By the very same bourgeoisie who feast upon the labour of the masses! He boasts of 'reserves' and the increased production of these monolithic companies, as if the increased activity of the exploiters is a benevolence bestowed upon the poor.

Even the State Duma, in its haste, passed amendments to the Tax Code with an urgency that reeks of desperation. They scramble to stabilise a market that is inherently unstable because it is built upon the greed of the few. And what of the Federal Antimonopoly Service? They send their formal inquiries to private networks, and lo! The 'Neftmagistral' company, sensing the breath of the law upon its neck, suddenly announces a reduction in price.

Do not be deceived, citizens! This is nothing more than a tactical retreat by the usurers of oil. Whether the price rises slightly or sharply, the result remains the same: the exploitation of the toiling masses to fuel the engines of capital. The yoke of the monopoly remains, and the burden falls, as always, upon the shoulders of the proletariat!