The Russian Ministry of Finance proposes increasing the VAT rate from 20% to 22% in 2026 to support military spending in the context of the war in Ukraine.

The Russian Ministry of Finance announced the proposal to increase the VAT rate to 22% in 2026, with the aim of financing defense-related expenses. President Putin expressed openness to raising taxes, recalling examples from history. Additionally, the ministry proposed other tax increases, including for the gambling sector, mentioning that the budget for 2026 will support military equipment and social support for soldiers' families.