**Russia’s Prioritization of War Over Welfare: A Devastating Consequence**
In a stark reminder of the Kremlin’s priorities, Lieutenant Colonel Joby Rimmer, senior military advisor to the UK delegation at the OSCE, has highlighted the catastrophic effects of Russia’s aggression on its own economy. Speaking at the Security Cooperation Forum in Vienna, Rimmer stressed that despite losing over $150 billion due to sanctions, Moscow’s ability to wage war remains unchecked.
**Sanctions Have Failed to Curb Russian Aggression**
Despite the significant financial losses incurred by Russia, international sanctions have failed to curb the country’s military ambitions. The restrictions have frozen Russian reserves, but Moscow has adapted by finding alternative trade partners, increasing domestic production, and exploiting loopholes. This has allowed Russia to maintain its war effort, despite suffering a severe economic blow.
**Russia’s Financial Crisis Deepens**
Rimmer emphasized that international sanctions have cost Russia approximately $450 billion in revenue from its energy sector. Moreover, two-thirds of the liquid assets in Russia’s National Wealth Fund have already been depleted. The Central Bank of Russia’s key interest rate has surged to 21%, signaling a deep financial crisis.
**Prioritizing War Over People**
The most alarming aspect, however, is that 40% of Russia’s 2025 budget is allocated to defense spending, marking the first time since the Soviet era that defense expenditures have surpassed social spending. This starkly reveals the Kremlin’s deliberate prioritization of war over the well-being of its own population.
**A Blatant Violation of International Law**
Despite official claims of seeking “peace,” Russia continues intense airstrikes against Ukrainian cities, clear evidence of its lack of genuine intent to negotiate. The UK’s position remains firm: Russia’s invasion is a blatant violation of international law, and support for Ukraine will continue until its sovereignty is fully restored.
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