Russia can keep fighting Ukraine war throughout 2026, says military thinktank

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 3 min read 100% complete by Dan Sabbagh Defence and security editorFebruary 24, 2026 at 04:09 PM

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A report by the International Institute for Strategic Studies indicates that Russia can sustain its war in Ukraine through 2026, despite emerging economic and manpower pressures. Russia's military spending has doubled since 2021, reaching 7.3% of its GDP in 2025, enabling continued high-intensity attacks. While Russia's economy is slowing, its substantial prior military spending allows for continued equipment and recruitment. Despite potential recruitment shortfalls, Russia could reduce casualties by slowing offensives. The report also highlights Russia's intensified attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure using missiles and drones, posing a growing threat to Europe.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

European Union 30% Belarus 40% Fenella McGerty 40% United States 50% Bastian Giegerich ×250% Nigel Gould Davies ×260% International Institute for Strategic Studies 70% Vladimir Putin ×480% Ukraine ×380% Russia ×690%

Keywords

ukraine war 100% russia 90% military spending 80% economic impact 70% drone threat 60% manpower 60% missile threat 60% military equipment 50% casualty rate 50% war economy 40%

Sentiment Analysis

Negative

Score: -0.40

Source Transparency

Source

The Guardian - World News

Political Lean

Center-Left (-0.40)

Far LeftCenterFar Right

Classification Confidence

90%

Geographic Perspective

Russia

This article was automatically classified using rule-based analysis. The political bias score ranges from -1 (far left) to +1 (far right).

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ukraine war russia military spending economic impact drone threat manpower missile threat military equipment casualty rate war economy

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