The Russian Minister of Defense declares that the war in Ukraine will continue into 2026, citing the position of Kiev and its allies. Russia has spent 5.1% of its GDP on this war in 2025.

Andrei Belousov, the Russian Minister of Defense, stated that there are 'all conditions' for the war in Ukraine to continue into 2026, citing the position of Kiev and its European allies. Russia has spent 5.1% of its GDP on this conflict, and Belousov emphasized the need to continue the offensive against the Ukrainian Armed Forces. He claimed that Russian units have significantly reduced Ukraine's military potential and that the collapse of the Ukrainian army is inevitable.

President Vladimir Putin asserted that Russia will achieve its objectives in Ukraine, either through diplomatic or military means, but denied any aggressive intentions towards other European countries. Putin accused European leaders of fostering fear of Russia and criticized the unacceptable demands made by supporters of Ukraine. Russia has allocated a defense budget of 7.3% of GDP, similar to that of the previous year.