Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, European Council President Antonio Costa, European Commission Vice-President and High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas and EU enlargement chief Marta Kos pose for a picture on the day of their meeting, amid Russia’s attack on Ukraine, in Kyiv, Ukraine, December 1, 2024. | Photo Credit: Reuters
Russian President Vladimir Putin has approved a record increase in military spending for 2025 as Moscow continues its efforts to gain an advantage in the war in Ukraine.
According to a budget plan published on a government website on Sunday, December 1, 2024, approximately 32.5% of the budget—13.5 trillion rubles (over $145 billion)—will be allocated to national defense. This marks a rise from 28.3% reported for the current year.