Analysis & Reports

Russian military expenditures reached 5.9 trillion rubles in the first quarter of 2026, accounting for nearly two-thirds of federal revenue. The increase in spending, primarily on military operations and procurement, reflects a significant shift in budget priorities, with classified military expenditures rising sharply. The federal budget is facing a deficit of 6.01 trillion rubles, indicating economic strain as civilian sectors decline under the weight of military funding demands.

Dmitri VolkovSun Jun 14 2026Loading...

Russian forces occupied only 14 additional square kilometers in Ukraine during May 2026, reflecting a drastic decline in territorial gains. From December 2025 to May 2026, they advanced just 40.64 square kilometers, compared to over 500 square kilometers in the same timeframe the previous year. The report highlights a shift in tactics towards infiltration amid increasing Ukrainian counterattacks and logistical challenges.

Dmitri VolkovWed Jun 03 2026Loading...

On May 26, 2026, the State Duma passed a law enabling the Bank of Russia, Sberbank, and Rosinkas to independently suppress drone operations at protected sites. This legislative change reflects the inadequacies of centralized air defense in Russia and shifts some military responsibilities to civilian banks, which can now engage in electronic warfare against drones. The law aims to enhance the coverage of drone defense across various locations in Russia, particularly in urban areas.

Dmitri VolkovWed May 27 2026Loading...

On May 22, 2026, an airstrike targeted the Rubicon command center in Starobilsk, resulting in at least 21 reported casualties. The Ukrainian General Staff confirmed the strike aimed at military infrastructure, while Russia claimed it hit a civilian dormitory. This incident has escalated tensions, with Russia threatening further military action against Ukraine.

Dmitri VolkovTue May 26 2026Loading...

Russia conducted nuclear exercises involving 64,000 troops in May 2026, signaling to NATO and European capitals. The exercises included over 200 missile launchers, 140 aircraft, and 13 submarines, demonstrating military readiness. This event is framed as a response to Western support for Ukraine and coincides with President Putin's visit to China, emphasizing strategic partnerships.

Dmitri VolkovTue May 19 2026Loading...

In 2026, the Russian military faces significant economic challenges as 400 oil wells have been closed, leading to a 10% reduction in oil processing. This decline is contributing to a federal budget deficit nearing $80 billion and labor shortages impacting military production. Ukrainian strikes on oil infrastructure are altering the cost dynamics of the ongoing conflict, indicating that the sustainability of the Russian military economy is under pressure.

Dmitri VolkovTue May 19 2026Loading...

Russian General Valery Gerasimov claimed 85% control of Lyman on May 16, 2026, but this is disputed by the Institute for the Study of War, which estimates actual control at only 0.06%. Russian forces are reportedly advancing towards Shevchenkove, yet the situation in Kupiansk remains unclear. The Russian Ministry of Defense reported significant drone interceptions and personnel losses, raising concerns about the accuracy of their operational reports.

Dmitri VolkovSun May 17 2026Loading...

Russian forces launched an offensive in May 2026, achieving significant territorial gains in Donetsk Oblast amid intense combat operations. Ukrainian forces engaged in 263 combat incidents and counterattacks, while Russia conducted numerous airstrikes and drone sorties. NATO member states met on May 13 to address escalating Russian hybrid threats, emphasizing the need for enhanced air and missile defense. Concurrently, Ukraine is transforming into a security exporter, deploying military specialists abroad.

Dmitri VolkovSun May 17 2026Loading...

Russia launched a large-scale missile and drone attack on Kyiv from May 13 to 14, 2026, resulting in significant civilian casualties. Ukrainian forces reported numerous combat engagements during a failed ceasefire, while NATO leaders in Bucharest declared Russia the primary threat to security and endorsed a new defense strategy. The conflict has intensified, with Ukraine preparing for potential long-range retaliatory strikes.

Dmitri VolkovSat May 16 2026Loading...

Russia announced a unilateral ceasefire for May 8-9, 2026, while Ukraine countered with its own ceasefire for May 5-6. Fighting intensified around Kostiantynivka, with Russian forces approaching the city. NATO leaders met in Bucharest on May 13, 2026, to address security concerns amid ongoing military operations. The Victory Day parade in Moscow was significantly scaled back, indicating the impact of prolonged conflict on Russian military capabilities.

Dmitri VolkovFri May 15 2026Loading...

On 13 May 2026, NATO's B9-Nordic summit in Romania addressed the ongoing war of attrition against Russia, emphasizing enhanced military cooperation among fourteen nations. Ukrainian forces reported 210 combat engagements and significant Russian airstrikes, while NATO condemned Russia's aggressive actions. The summit highlighted the need for stronger defense capabilities in response to escalating threats, particularly in Eastern Europe.

Dmitri VolkovThu May 14 2026Loading...

A three-day ceasefire was established between Russian and Ukrainian forces from May 9 to May 11, 2026, with a prisoner exchange agreement. This marked the first cessation of hostilities since February 2022, with both sides observing the ceasefire without violations. Russian combat losses have reached approximately 1,345,240 personnel since the invasion began, highlighting the ongoing attrition in the conflict.

Dmitri VolkovThu May 14 2026Loading...

On May 9, 2026, a US-mediated ceasefire began but quickly unraveled, with both Russia and Ukraine reporting numerous violations. By May 12, Russia launched 216 attack drones at Ukraine, resulting in civilian casualties, while Ukraine retaliated with drone strikes deep into Russian territory. The EU responded with new sanctions against Russia, highlighting the ongoing conflict's escalation and the failure of diplomatic efforts to achieve lasting peace.

Dmitri VolkovWed May 13 2026Loading...

Russian forces conducted 150 assaults and over 100 artillery shelling incidents during a ceasefire from May 9-11, 2026, revealing a significant military operation despite diplomatic efforts. The Russian military's territorial losses and reliance on infiltration tactics indicate a decline in offensive capabilities. Concurrently, Germany strengthened defense ties with Ukraine, signaling a shift in European military support. The overall strategic situation increasingly favors the defender, with Russia's operational challenges becoming more pronounced.

Dmitri VolkovTue May 12 2026Loading...

Russia declared a unilateral ceasefire from May 8 to May 9, 2026, but it was violated by drone strikes on Kharkiv, injuring civilians. Ukrainian forces intercepted 27 Russian drones during this period, while total Russian combat losses reached approximately 1,341,110 personnel. A reconnaissance drone was discovered near Kaliningrad, indicating ongoing Russian probing of NATO boundaries. The EU is set to discuss military support for Ukraine on May 12, 2026.

Dmitri VolkovSun May 10 2026Loading...

Russian forces continue to engage in relentless combat operations in Ukraine, with personnel losses exceeding 1.3 million. The MIVD reports significant improvements in Russian military capabilities, including enhanced command and control and the effective use of drones. Despite heavy casualties, Russia maintains a robust industrial-scale combat power generation. The situation remains dynamic, with potential implications for NATO's eastern flank as Russia adapts its military strategy.

Dmitri VolkovSun May 10 2026Loading...

As of May 10, 2026, cumulative Russian personnel losses in the Ukraine war reached approximately 1,341,110, while Ukrainian casualties are estimated at around half a million. The daily combat-death ratios have shifted unfavorably for Ukraine in 2025. Russian forces are reportedly transforming and adapting, becoming a qualitatively superior fighting force compared to their initial invasion in February 2022.

Dmitri VolkovSun May 10 2026Loading...

Ukrainian drones targeted Moscow on May 8, 2026, coinciding with a Russian ceasefire announcement. Ukrainian forces have successfully counterattacked, liberating over 400 square kilometers, while Russian combat losses have reached approximately 1,339,190 personnel. The operational momentum of Russian forces has significantly slowed, prompting a transformation in their military doctrine towards positional warfare and attrition.

Dmitri VolkovFri May 08 2026Loading...

The report contains vague content labeled as 'Test content' with no specific military or operational details provided. Source information is also unclear, contributing to the overall uncertainty of the report.

Dmitri VolkovFri May 08 2026Loading...

Ukrainian drone strikes targeted Moscow and other Russian locations on May 5, leading to the interception of 117 drones by Russian forces. The attacks coincide with heightened security measures in Moscow ahead of the Victory Day parade, which has been significantly scaled back due to perceived threats. Ukraine's military operations have expanded into Russia's industrial heartland, while diplomatic tensions continue to rise between NATO and Russia. President Zelensky proposed a unilateral ceasefire, challenging Russia's response.

Dmitri VolkovTue May 05 2026Loading...