Russia is set to allocate a record 32.5 percent of its budget to defense in 2025, up from 28.3 percent this year, as the conflict in Ukraine continues. The proposed budget of nearly 13.5 trillion rubles will focus on national defense, signaling a significant increase in military spending.
With Russia’s forces gaining ground in eastern Ukraine against smaller Ukrainian troops, President Zelensky seeks continued support from Western allies, while President Putin faces economic strain amid high military spending, prompting interest rate hikes.
As discussions on the budget progress, plans indicate a decline in defense spending by 2026. Putin’s recent call-up of conscripts and Russia’s use of drones in attacks on Ukraine reflect escalating tensions, with both sides deploying advanced technology in the conflict.
Despite ongoing attacks, Ukraine also focuses on developing drones for defense. Putin’s anniversary remarks on the annexation of Ukrainian territories highlight ongoing geopolitical tensions and differing perspectives on the conflict.
