Russia’s war machine has become such an integral part of its economic engine that its military industry is likely to keep expanding even after the fighting in Ukraine ends, according to a report from the Center for Strategic and International Studies.
“The end of hostilities will not lead to a radical cut-off of military investment,” wrote CSIS analysts in a report published on Thursday.
Now in its fourth year, Russia’s war with Ukraine continues even as Russian President Vladimir Putin’s administration weathers sweeping Western sanctions. And while cracks are starting to show, the Russian economy may still be able to sustain the war effort for several more years, the report said.
Defense spending is set to hit a post-Soviet record of 6.3% of GDP in 2025 and could climb even higher despite mounting signs of economic slowdown or recession.
“Russia’s economy…
