Russian Military Spending Soars to Record High in 2025 Budget

Russian Military Spending Soars to Record High in 2025 Budget

Russian President Vladimir Putin has approved a new national budget for 2025, significantly shifting spending priorities. A record 32.5% of the budget—over 137 billion euros—is allocated to national defence, up from 28.3% in 2024. The increase highlights Moscow’s continued focus on military efforts amid the ongoing war with Ukraine. In contrast, spending on healthcare, education, and social policies will decrease, emphasizing military goals over domestic welfare.

War in Ukraine Drives Defence Spending

Russia’s increased military spending is driven by the prolonged conflict in Ukraine, Europe’s largest war since World War II. Despite extensive Western support for Ukraine, Russia’s military continues making gradual advances, especially in eastern Ukraine. This prolonged conflict has led Russia to significantly prioritize and invest in its military forces.

Continued Casualties from Drone and Missile Strikes

The conflict remains deadly, marked by ongoing drone and missile attacks. Recently, a Russian drone attack in Kherson, Ukraine, killed three people and injured seven. Another missile strike in Dnipro resulted in four deaths and 24 injuries. Meanwhile, Russia reported intercepting 29 Ukrainian drones, though a drone strike in Bryansk killed a child. These ongoing strikes reflect the persistent and escalating nature of the war.