russia’s arms exports have dropped to a record low
russia’s arms exports have dropped by 47% over the past two years, according to data from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI). This decline is primarily due to russia’s need to prioritize arming its own military for the war against Ukraine. Another key factor is sanctions and the reluctance of buyer countries to risk trade restrictions from the U.S. and European nations.
Arms exports have long been a crucial element of russia’s foreign economic strategy, a demonstration of its military power, and a strong tool of geopolitical influence. However, the country—once a major supplier of weapons to itself and others—is now forced to purchase missiles, drones, and artillery from sanctioned Iran and North Korea.
