Kyiv: Ukraine’s parliament has approved a sweeping 2026 state budget that places national defense at the heart of government spending, dedicating nearly one-third of the country’s entire economic output to military needs as the war with Russia shows no sign of easing. The decision, made during a tense session in the Verkhovna Rada, underscores Kyiv’s determination to sustain its defense capabilities while grappling with mounting internal and economic challenges.

The newly adopted budget directs 27.2% of Ukraine’s GDP to defense-related activities, including weapons purchases, expansion of domestic arms production, troop salaries, and battlefield logistics. This intense focus reflects the government’s belief that strengthening the military is vital for national survival as Russian forces

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