Budget 2027

French public sector workers walked out on strike in protest at a pay freeze as the government prepares the 2027 budget. Unions are demanding wage increases and better working conditions, and the stoppage affects schools, hospitals and other public services. The dispute adds to pressure on the government as it seeks spending cuts ahead of the budget, with unions warning of further action if demands are not met.

Russia plans to reduce spending on welfare and education in its 2027 budget while sharply increasing military expenditure, according to a Reuters report. The cuts signal that the Kremlin intends to sustain high war-related costs at the expense of domestic social programmes, raising concerns among Russians about the future of public services and social support.

Russia has set a record military budget for 2027, which Ukrainian officials and analysts say confirms Moscow has no intention of ending its war against Ukraine. The record defence spending signals that Russia is preparing for a prolonged conflict, dashing hopes for near-term peace negotiations as the full-scale invasion continues.