Russia intends to spend approximately $1.1 trillion on rearmament by 2036, representing its largest arms program since the Soviet Union’s collapse. The Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine reports that this investment accompanies a comprehensive mobilization of Russian resources for potential large-scale conflict. Within its military reform, Russia is establishing new military districts and formations while aiming to destabilize the existing global order through increased influence in Africa, hybrid operations, and cyber warfare. Russia seeks to reshape the world order, prioritizing the dominance of major powers and control over essential resources.
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France’s Macron announces plan to accelerate military spending, a move that feels significant on many levels. It’s exciting to see Europe taking greater responsibility for its own defense, especially given the current geopolitical climate. The announcement of 64 billion euros earmarked for defense by 2027, a plan accelerated from the original 2030 timeline, really underscores the urgency of the situation.
This shift in strategy, bringing the investment forward, hints at a strategic assessment of the risks on the continent. Considering the rapid evolution of the global landscape, particularly with Russia’s actions in Ukraine, it makes perfect sense to prepare sooner rather than later.… Continue reading
On July 13, 2025, French President Emmanuel Macron addressed military leaders, revealing a plan for 6.5 billion euros in additional military spending over the next two years, citing unprecedented threats from Russia, terrorism, and cyberattacks. This will bring France’s annual defense spending to 64 billion euros by 2027, doubling the amount from his initial presidency. Macron emphasized the need for a powerful France to protect European freedom, due to instability from the war in Ukraine and uncertainty regarding the United States’ role. The President also initiated a strategic dialogue with European partners to discuss the role of France’s nuclear arsenal in defense.
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Despite initial resilience fueled by military spending and oil exports, the Russian economy is now facing a downturn. Manufacturing is contracting, consumer spending is down, and inflation remains high, straining the national budget. Experts warn that the economy’s reliance on military spending is unsustainable, and Western sanctions are increasingly taking a toll. This economic strain is reducing Russia’s ability to fund the war in Ukraine, with falling oil prices adding further risk to the situation.
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Amidst warnings of an impending recession, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced plans to reduce military spending over the next three years, despite current spending reaching nearly $172 billion annually. This decision follows warnings from economic officials regarding dwindling resources and a slowdown in wartime economic growth, despite 4.3% growth in 2024. Russia faces challenges including high inflation, labor shortages, and the impact of Western sanctions, leading to cuts in non-military spending, particularly social programs. Furthermore, private industries are suffering, and banking officials have privately warned about a potential crisis next year, while the country struggles with reintegrating returning veterans.
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Prime Minister Mark Carney will join the European Union’s “Readiness 2030” initiative in Brussels on June 23rd, aiming to diversify Canada’s military partnerships beyond the United States. This participation, involving increased defense spending and military aid to Ukraine, follows Carney’s announcement of over $9 billion in new military spending this fiscal year. A significant portion of this funding, potentially $2 billion, is earmarked for Ukraine’s ongoing conflict with Russia. Canada’s involvement will focus on collaborative projects within the initiative, including areas such as air and missile defense and AI.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood