Photo: Depositphotos
On 21 May, China sharply criticised the United States’ plans to develop the Golden Dome missile defence system, saying the project threatens global stability and could trigger an arms race. This statement came after US President Donald Trump announced the allocation of $25 billion for the ambitious project.
“China expresses serious concern over this issue. We call on the United States to abandon the development and deployment of a global missile defence system as soon as possible,” said Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning at a press conference in Beijing. According to her, the US plans “increase the risk of turning space into a battlefield”.
“The Golden Dome: an ambitious US project
On 20 May, Donald Trump officially announced the start of funding for the Golden Dome project, which he estimates could cost up to $175 billion. The US president said the system would be capable of intercepting missiles launched from anywhere in the world, including space threats. The Golden Dome is expected to be operational in about three years.
“When fully constructed, the Golden Dome will be able to intercept missiles even if they are launched from other parts of the world, and even if they are launched from space,” Trump said.
US Space Force General Michael Gatlin has been appointed to lead the programme. Trump also expressed hope that Canada would join the project, although there has been no official comment from the Canadian authorities.
Geopolitical context
The announcement of the Golden Dome was part of the Trump administration’s broader policy of strengthening US defence capabilities. Earlier, the president signed a decree on the creation of an air defence system, which, according to him, is in line with the principle of “peace from strength”.
China’s reaction reflects the growing tensions between Washington and Beijing, especially in the areas of military technology and space security. Beijing has repeatedly expressed concern about US missile defence initiatives, considering them a threat to the strategic balance.
International reaction
So far, other countries have not officially commented on the US plans for the Golden Dome. However, politicians such as former British Prime Minister Theresa May have previously called on the US to confront the “axis of aggressors”, which she defined as Russia, China, Iran and North Korea. This may indicate support for such initiatives from some of Washington’s allies.
The development of the Golden Dome promises to be one of the largest US defence projects in decades. At the same time, it is likely to increase international tensions, especially given the concerns of China and other states about the militarisation of space.
Source: Radio Liberty
