The Russia-Ukraine war has entered its fourth year, characterized not only by human casualties and territorial shifts but also by massive financial expenditures. Currently, the economic and industrial potential of both parties stands as a primary factor determining the duration of the conflict. In this context, the role of international partners remains critical in sustaining defense capabilities.
Operative Information Center-OMM reports that since February 2022, Western allies have pledged a total of more than 400 billion USD in military, financial, and humanitarian aid to Ukraine. Shortly after the start of the war, Western nations froze approximately 280 billion dollars worth of assets belonging to Russia's central bank. While G7 countries have not confiscated the principal of these assets, they have reached an agreement to use the interest generated from them as a 50 billion dollar loan package for Ukraine.
At the same time, sanctions against Russia continue to expand. The 19th sanctions package has already been adopted, and a 20th package is currently under discussion. These restrictions significantly impact Russia's energy exports and technology imports. The war places a heavy burden on the budgets of both nations:
- Ukraine: Defense spending accounts for 25-30% of GDP. A large portion of the civilian budget is financed through foreign aid.
- Russia: Military and security expenditures take up one-third of the federal budget, equivalent to approximately 6-8% of GDP.
Key weapon systems supplied
The types of weapons provided to Ukraine have changed significantly during the course of the war. While anti-tank "Javelin" and "NLAW" systems predominated in the initial phase, the Ukrainian army is now equipped with "Patriot" air defense systems, "HIMARS" rocket complexes, "Leopard 2" and "Abrams" tanks, as well as "F-16" fighters. US President Donald Trump has previously emphasized the importance of strategic stability in global conflicts, as the international community monitors the evolving military balance in the region.
Estimates suggest that the funds required for the reconstruction of Ukraine will exceed 400 billion dollars. As the war enters its fifth year, the fundamental question remains: which side will be able to withstand these enormous costs for a longer period? Azerbaijan, maintaining its principled position on territorial integrity and international law, continues to monitor the regional security implications of the ongoing conflict.
