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2mo ago

China Rejects U.S.-Russia Proposal to Halve Defense Budgets

Beijing cites national security needs as Trump and Putin push for major military spending cuts and renewed denuclearization talks.

A military officer salutes during a parade to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China in Beijing on October 1, 2019.
Russian president Vladimir Putin speaking during an interview with Russian journalist Pavel Zarubin at the Novo-Ogaryovo state residence outside Moscow, Russia on February 24, 2025.
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Overview

  • Donald Trump proposed a 50% reduction in military spending by the U.S., Russia, and China, alongside restarting denuclearization negotiations.
  • Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed support for the proposal, stating Moscow is open to discussions with Washington on mutual cuts.
  • China dismissed the idea, with its foreign ministry emphasizing its defense spending is necessary for sovereignty and regional stability.
  • China's military budget, officially reported at $236 billion for 2024, is believed by some analysts to be significantly higher, nearing U.S. levels.
  • The proposal comes as U.S.-Russia talks aim to normalize ties and address the ongoing war in Ukraine, now in its fourth year.