Despite Russian President Putin's attempts to project conventional military strength while demonstrating a willingness to use force, reports reveal the Kremlin cannot sustain its current level of military investment due to its domestic economic situation and is looking to slash its military budget by 5% in this year, marking the largest cut in defence spending in Putin's presidency. It is particularly important considering Russia's current roster of expensive military policies and underscores the extent of Russia's economic problems. With Putin's policies, influence and appeal rooted in military expansion and adventurism, these cuts could leave him more isolated. As we previously noted, the Russian economy has contracted 3.7% on the back of sanctions, falling oil prices and a currency valuation crisis, and is expected to contract further 2016.
Despite Russian President Putin's attempts to project conventional military strength while demonstrating a willingness to use force, reports reveal the Kremlin cannot sustain its current level of military investment due to its domestic economic situation and is looking to slash its military budget by 5% in 2016, marking the largest cut in defence spending in Putin's presidency. It is particularly important considering Russia's current roster of expensive military policies and underscores the extent of Russia's economic problems. With Putin's policies, influence and appeal rooted in military expansion and adventurism, these cuts could leave him more isolated. As we previously noted, the Russian economy has contracted 3.7% on the back of sanctions, falling oil prices and a currency valuation crisis, and is expected to contract further this year.