The decision made by the government on August 22 to extend the prohibition on vodka for the duration of the war showcased a certain recklessness typical of the late-Romanov era. This move, which transformed vodka sales into a state monopoly, abruptly eliminated a significant portion of the government's revenue, removing as much as one third of its income. This drastic policy change raised eyebrows, especially among members of the Duma, who were perplexed by a government strategy that forsook its primary income source in the midst of wartime challenges.

Historical precedent suggested that during warfare, governments generally seek to bolster their finances through taxes and levies rather than relinquishing major revenue streams. The bewilderment among lawmakers highlighted the illogical nature of such a decision, as it directly contradicted common practices observed throughout history. Moreover, this action accentuated the strain placed on national finances and raised questions about the government's long-term strategic planning during an already precarious period.