In 2024, Russia’s total defense expenditures surged by 42% in real terms, reaching 13.1 trillion rubles. When adjusted for purchasing power parity (PPP)—which accounts for differences in what money can buy in different countries—this amounts to $462 billion, according to the data by the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), the Financial Times reported.

By comparison, total defense spending across Europe, including the U.K. and EU member states, increased by nearly 12% last year to $457 billion, slightly trailing Moscow’s budget.

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[–] TheOSINTguy 2 points 6 days ago

I believe they are somewhat stockpiling, but to a limited extent. With the Baltic states creating fortifications (dragons teeth and a few other things) does signal war time preparations.

Not to also mention putin is trying to arm belarus and get them involved, which may elevate some stress on russian forces enough for them re-organize.

As much as I hate to say it, there's a chance of this war expanding to other countries before it ends.