Zelensky: Russia’s budget deficit will rise from $71B to $100B

The head of Ukrainian state said this during a press briefing, according to an Ukrinform correspondent.

“We believe that next year Russia will face a significant [budget] deficit—nearly $100 billion. We’ve seen documents—just a month ago, the figure was $71 billion, but it’s clear their problems have grown. And if India truly starts buying fewer energy resources, I believe that will help,” Zelensky said.

He added that, according to unconfirmed intelligence, India has already started buying less energy from Russia.

“Based on our data, India has started purchasing fewer energy resources. Although I can’t say for certain—I’ve only heard this. Every week, I receive intelligence analytics, and I believe I’ll be able to share more in about a month,” the President noted.

As previously reported by Ukrinform, Russia’s draft federal budget for 2026–2028 outlines a reallocation of resources away from social and regional programs in favor of the military-industrial complex and security agencies. Intelligence sources indicate that the Russian government plans to raise the value-added tax rate from 20% to 22%. Finance Minister Anton Siluanov has already acknowledged that this move will lead to higher prices and increased pressure on businesses.

Starting next year, Russia will introduce a new tax regime for small and medium-sized enterprises. The annual income threshold for simplified taxation will be reduced sixfold—from approximately $723,000 to $120,000.