Republican lawmakers are pushing for a $150 billion increase in the U.S. defense budget, aiming to bring the total for 2025 to over $1 trillion. The proposed boost focuses on expanding President Donald Trump’s missile defense system, “Golden Dome,” along with significant investments in naval power and homeland security. However, the plan is drawing concern due to cuts in social programs and rising criticisms of Trump’s diplomatic stance.
Increased Funding for Missile Defense and Naval Expansion
The draft budget, which was reviewed by Reuters, proposes a $27 billion increase for the controversial “Golden Dome” missile defense system. In addition, the package includes funding for the construction of 14 new warships and further upgrades to the nation’s defense infrastructure.
This push for higher defense spending aligns with Trump’s broader economic agenda, which includes a proposal for $5 trillion in tax cuts. However, critics warn that these cuts could lead to an additional $5.7 trillion in national debt over the next decade.
Proposed Cuts to Social Programs
To make room for the defense budget increase, the Department of Justice plans to cut $811 million in grants. The proposed reductions would impact vital services such as trauma care, domestic violence prevention, support for the hearing impaired, and police training programs.
While the grants are spread over several years, it is still unclear how much of the funding has been allocated. Critics argue that these cuts will undermine support for vulnerable communities, especially those in need of public safety services.
Defense Department Faces Internal Disruption
The Pentagon is experiencing internal turbulence, with Joe Kasper, the chief of staff to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, stepping down from his position. Although Kasper claims he resigned voluntarily to take on a new advisory role, U.S. media outlets suggest that internal disagreements may have contributed to his departure.
$100 Billion Arms Deal with Saudi Arabia Under Negotiation
In another significant development, the Trump administration is finalizing a $100 billion arms deal with Saudi Arabia. The deal, which may be announced during Trump’s upcoming visit to the kingdom, is expected to include major defense contracts with U.S. companies like Lockheed Martin, Boeing, and Northrop Grumman. However, officials from both the U.S. and Saudi governments, as well as the involved defense firms, have declined to comment.
Trump Avoids “Genocide” Term in Armenian Remembrance
In a break from tradition, President Trump refrained from using the word “genocide” in his annual statement on April 24 commemorating the 1915 Armenian massacres. Instead, he referred to the killings as “one of the darkest tragedies of the 20th century.”
This decision marks a significant departure from President Joe Biden, who formally recognized the Armenian genocide in 2021. Trump’s omission has sparked sharp criticism, particularly from Armenian-American groups. Aram Hamparian, director of the Armenian National Committee of America, accused the president of succumbing to Turkish pressure and deliberately denying historical facts. Hamparian warned that this shift could encourage further anti-Armenian actions.