Trump's $175b 'Golden Dome' missile shield sparks Russia ire
The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has accused the United States of undermining strategic stability with plans to create a new missile defense system called the "Golden Dome." "This is already a literal manifestation of the US’ highly dangerous doctrinal course toward delivering so-called preventive, but essentially first strikes," stated Maria Zakharova.
US President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday the decision to implement a new missile defense system called the "Golden Dome." The project involves deploying sensors and interceptors in space. Trump assured that the system, estimated to cost $175 billion, would be completed before the end of his term and promise nearly 100% effectiveness.
Russia concerned about the US "Golden Dome"
Russia reacted to Trump's plans, with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs accusing the US of "undermining stability."
"This is an opportunistic approach which directly undermines the basis of strategic stability," stated Maria Zakharova, the spokeswoman for the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
According to Zakharova, the "Golden Dome" "will give an additional boost" to the development of pre-launch destruction systems for missiles.
"Within the framework of developing the Golden Dome, it is planned to give an additional boost to the further development of the means of pre-launch missile destruction and infrastructure that ensures their use. This is already a literal manifestation of the US's highly dangerous doctrinal course toward delivering so-called preventive, but essentially first strikes," said Zakharova.
The most advanced system will also intercept nuclear weapons
President Donald Trump announced the "Golden Dome" project in early May. He declared that its implementation would be completed by January 2029. The new missile defense system is also designed to intercept nuclear weapons, noted Pentagon Chief Pete Hegseth.
Reuters reported that the "Golden Dome" aims to create a network of satellites to detect, track, and potentially intercept incoming missiles. The shield may comprise hundreds of satellites used for missile detection and tracking.
The project was also criticized by North Korea and China.
The Kremlin emphasized that creating a new missile defense system is the sovereign right of the United States. "If the United States believes that there is a missile threat, then, of course, they develop missile defense systems," said the president's spokesman, Dmitry Peskov.
