At a recent seminar organized by the National Defence University of Finland, researchers discussed the critical state of Russia's military-industrial complex. According to the opening remarks by Tor Bukkvoll from the Norwegian Defence Research Establishment, the industry's capacities are already stressed to their limits, and there are exaggerated views in the West regarding Russia's military rearmament speed and quality post-Ukraine war. Bukkvoll emphasized that Russia's economy is stagnating, and in the forthcoming decade, debt repayment issues will start to weigh more heavily on its economy.

Charlie Walker, an associate professor at the University of Southampton, highlighted the severe problems plaguing the military industry, pinpointing issues such as staff shortages, an aging workforce, and structural weaknesses that are compounding the challenges. The implications of these issues may signal a significant shift in regional military capabilities as Russia struggles to maintain its military readiness and modernization in the wake of ongoing conflicts.

The discussion at the seminar sheds light on the broader strategic implications of these struggles, which may affect Russia's ability to project power and sustain its military operations. As the junta operates under economic constraints and internal challenges, experts are closely watching how these factors will influence the geopolitical landscape in Europe and beyond, particularly in relation to security and defense policies.