By M10News International Desk | © M10News 2025
Russian President Vladimir Putin has signalled plans to reduce military spending in the long term, citing rising inflation as a key factor behind the proposed cuts.
Speaking at a government meeting in Moscow, Putin acknowledged the financial strain that prolonged conflict has placed on Russia’s economy, noting that sustained high defence budgets are “unsustainable” over time given current inflationary pressures.
“We must balance national defence requirements with economic stability,” Putin said, though he emphasised that current operations in Ukraine and other security priorities will remain funded.
The Kremlin has yet to outline specific timelines or figures regarding the proposed spending reductions.
Meanwhile, Ukraine claims its special forces have successfully executed a long-range drone strike on a Russian airfield, marking a significant escalation in Kyiv’s use of advanced unmanned technology.
According to Ukraine’s military intelligence, the attack targeted a facility deep inside Russian territory, believed to house strategic aircraft.
Footage circulating on social media appears to show explosions and fires consistent with such strikes, although Russian authorities have not formally confirmed damage to the site.
The Ukrainian defence ministry described the operation as part of its ongoing efforts to degrade Russia’s military logistics and aviation assets, stating: “Our forces will continue to disrupt enemy capabilities wherever they are located.”
The development comes amid heightened tensions along the front lines, with Ukrainian officials warning of intensified Russian assaults in eastern regions. Despite the challenges, Kyiv has increasingly relied on long-range drone technology to strike critical Russian infrastructure beyond the battlefield.
The Kremlin has previously condemned Ukrainian drone attacks as “terrorist acts” and vowed retaliation, while Kyiv maintains that its operations target legitimate military objectives in response to Russia’s invasion.
International observers have raised concerns that escalating drone warfare could further destabilise the region, but diplomatic efforts to contain the conflict remain stalled.
Putin’s announcement on defence spending adjustments comes against this backdrop, with analysts suggesting the move reflects both economic constraints and a recognition that the war’s financial toll is mounting for Moscow.
