Russia Ramps Up Spending Ahead of Windfall From Middle East War
Russia stepped up spending in March in anticipation of a surge in revenue from the jump in oil prices caused by the war in the Middle East.
The Mozambican-flagged oil tanker "Deyna", suspected of belonging to the Russian's shadow fleet, is seen outside the coast of Martigues near the port of Marseille-Fos on Mars 23, 2026, as it's surveilled by the French Navy. The Mozambican-flagged oil tanker sailing from Russia in the Mediterranean intercepted by the French Navy on March 20, 2026, and inspected over the regularity of its flag arrived off the port of Marseille-Fos (south) on March 23, 2026, to be placed at the disposal of the judiciary. Photographer: Thibaud Moritz/AFP/Getty Images