Russia Hikes War Budget by 27% to Record High, Signaling Plans to Fight Into 2027
Russia has increased its war budget by 27% to a record level as it prepares to continue fighting into 2027, while Ukrainian forces advance near Lyman and shoot down a fast-flying Geran-5 drone.
Russia has raised its military spending for the coming year by 27%, reaching a record level, in a move signaling that Moscow is preparing to sustain its war against Ukraine into 2027.
Front-line developments
As part of its "Vivaldi" counteroffensive operation, Ukraine's armed forces have reached Russian fortifications near the town of Lyman. According to Ukrainian reports, the advance was carried out without facing drone fire from the opposing side.
Separately, Ukrainian air defense crews shot down a Russian Geran-5 jet-powered drone traveling at 425 km/h — considerably faster than the propeller-driven Geran drones Russia has typically deployed until now.
International support and sabotage claims
Belgium has delivered three F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine, adding to the country's ongoing military assistance.
Estonian authorities have confirmed that an arson attack on a robotics manufacturer supplying equipment to Ukraine was ordered by Moscow. The targeted company is involved in supplying gear used by Ukraine's armed forces.
