Russian equity markets opened sharply lower on Thursday, with the MOEX index falling 1.73% to 2,107.82 points and the RTS index dropping to 846.33 points by 10:00 Moscow time.
The decline marks a significant acceleration in selling pressure compared to the modest losses seen earlier in the week.
Currency markets reflected the same weakness, as the ruble depreciated against the Chinese yuan.
The exchange rate slipped below 11.5 rubles per yuan, a level not breached since July 16.
This move signals renewed pressure on the domestic currency amid ongoing market volatility.
The sharp pullback follows a volatile start to the week.