Trump's $175B missile shield sparks debate and controversy
Donald Trump announced an ambitious defense project worth $175 billion. This initiative, known as the Golden Dome, aims to protect the U.S. from missile attacks, even if they are launched from space. The president's proposal has sparked considerable debate.
Trump plans to shield the U.S. from threats posed by China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, and other powers. He intends to utilize the latest technologies to intercept both ballistic and hypersonic missiles. The 175-billion-dollar project is aimed for completion as early as 2029.
Though ambitious, the plan has generated mixed reactions. Experts note that it is almost certain there will be challenges in executing the project on schedule. Financial constraints may also be a factor. The Congressional Budget Office estimates that the new system could ultimately cost as much as $831 billion.
My focus is on building the most powerful military of the future. [...] That's something we want, and Ronald Reagan wanted it many years ago, but they didn't have the technology, but it's something we're going to have [...] Israel has it, other places have it, and the United States should have it, too — Donald Trump argued during a speech in Congress.
Critics from "The Daily Beast" warned that the Golden Dome could lead to the transfer of public funds to companies such as SpaceX, owned by Elon Musk, who is a supporter of the current presidential policy. These criticisms have also been echoed on the international stage.
Russia and China, during a joint leaders' meeting in Moscow, expressed concern. Mao Ning, spokesperson for the Chinese foreign ministry, stated at a press conference that Trump's proposal could violate the principles of peaceful use of outer space and is "destabilizing."
Meanwhile, the Canadian organization Canadian Peace Initiative voiced concerns that constructing such an advanced defense system could trigger an arms race and upset the global balance of power.
Trump's Golden Dome: How does it work?
The project may also receive more favorable feedback. Experts stress that the current system, which relies on Patriots, is inadequate and outdated; thus, changes are necessary.
The Golden Dome will allow for the interception of missiles launched from various parts of the world and even from outer space. To ensure adequate security, satellites will be employed to track threats and neutralize them using ground-based missiles.
