Putin approves record military budget as Russia increases defense spending to 32.5% of GDP

Vladimir Putin has approved a record military budget for 2025, allocating 32.5% of Russia's GDP, or over £99 billion, to national defense. This is an increase from 28.3% in 2024. The budget approval follows reports of significant troop losses for Russia in Ukraine, with over 2,030 soldiers claimed lost in a single day. In related developments, EU leaders reaffirmed support for Ukraine during a visit to Kyiv, pledging financial assistance amid ongoing military tensions. Ukraine's President Zelensky emphasized the need for EU and NATO involvement in any future ceasefire negotiations.