Russia's economy has seen a significant boost in recent years due to increased military spending. However, this growth in GDP masks deeper economic challenges that the country is facing.
The Russian government has been prioritizing military spending, which has led to a notable increase in defense expenditures. According to recent data, Russia's military budget reached $65.1 billion in 2020, making it the fourth-largest military spender globally. This rise in military investment has played a crucial role in driving Russia's GDP growth, contributing to a 1.3% increase in 2019.