Vladimir Putin has asked Russian oligarchs to donate to the country's budget to stabilize finances as the Ukraine war continues. The president held a closed-door meeting with leading businessmen, according to Russian media.
The conflict, now in its fifth year, has driven defense costs to 15.5 trillion roubles in 2025. Russia faces falling energy revenues and an economic slowdown, impacting tax income.
Billionaire Suleiman Kerimov pledged 100 billion roubles, while metals magnate Oleg Deripaska also reportedly agreed to contribute.
Putin said Russia will continue fighting until it captures the remaining areas of Ukraine's Donbas region.
