In a dramatic escalation of military ambitions, Russian lawmakers have just approved a staggering 30 percent increase in military spending for 2025, pushing the budget to an eye-watering 13.5 trillion rubles (approximately $125 billion). This monumental decision, passed by the Federation Council, marks a return to Soviet-era levels of defense expenditure, reflecting Moscow’s relentless pursuit of its war in Ukraine and a fierce confrontation with the West.
The budget, which is set to dwarf allocations for welfare and education combined, signifies a clear message: Russia is doubling down on its military efforts amidst ongoing conflicts in Ukraine’s eastern regions and the Kursk area. As fighting intensifies, President Vladimir Putin’s administration is ramping up its rhetoric against Western nations for their support of Ukraine, even as it tests advanced weaponry, including hypersonic missiles. This military funding boost is not just a number; it represents a strategic pivot in Russia’s approach to the ongoing war.
Unprecedented Military Commitments
In a move that underscores the seriousness of the situation, the budget does not even account for classified expenditures related to „domestic security“ and other secretive military operations. As the Kremlin prepares to sign this budget into law, the implications are clear: Russia is ready to sustain its military operations at all costs. Meanwhile, Ukraine is also ramping up its defense spending, with plans for a record 2.2 trillion hryvnias (over $53 billion) allocated for 2025, reflecting the high stakes on both sides of the conflict.
As inflation pressures mount and the ruble weakens—trading now at over 105 to the US dollar—Russia’s economy is feeling the strain of its military ambitions. Yet, the Kremlin remains undeterred, projecting a 2.5 percent GDP growth for 2025, even as it grapples with the economic fallout from its ongoing military engagements. This budget approval is not just a financial decision; it is a bold declaration of intent from Moscow, signaling that the war effort will continue unabated.
