Latest news with #OuterSpaceTreaty
Miami Herald
3 days ago
- Politics
- Miami Herald
China Warns US Over Trump's ‘Golden Dome'
The Chinese military has issued a warning to the United States over President Donald Trump's Golden Dome missile defense program, claiming it would open a "Pandora's box." When asked for a response, the Pentagon referred Newsweek to an earlier statement issued by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who said the $175 billion initiative would "protect our nation from aerial attacks from any foe" by deploying interceptors and sensors in space. On May 20, Trump announced his administration's preferred concept for the Golden Dome program, which he said is expected to be fully operational before the end of his term in 2029. The missile defense system will see the U.S. deploy weapons in space to intercept missiles for the first time. China previously warned that the proposed "highly offensive" U.S. defense system violates the principle of the peaceful use of space. "It will exacerbate the risk of turning outer space into a battlefield and starting an arms race," Beijing's foreign ministry said on May 21. Russia and North Korea-both quasi-allies of China-have also slammed the U.S. for undermining strategic stability and turning space into a potential nuclear battlefield. Zhang Xiaogang, spokesperson for the Chinese Defense Ministry, accused the U.S. at a press conference on Thursday of "continuously" expanding its military build-up and stoking an arms race in space, thereby violating the "relevant principles" of the Outer Space Treaty. The treaty prohibits the placing of nuclear weapons or other weapons of mass destruction in Earth's orbit, on celestial bodies, or in outer space, according to the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs. The deployment of the Golden Dome system would "heighten the risk of turning space into a war zone and triggering a space arms race," the Chinese military spokesperson said. "Its actions will once again open a Pandora's box. This proves again that no country has done more than the U.S. in militarizing space and making it a battlefield," Zhang added. In his statement issued shortly after Trump's announcement, Hegseth mentioned that some of America's space technologies-including space-based sensors and air and missile defense-already exist, but they need to be "seamlessly integrated" to comprise a complete system. Space Force General Michael Guetlein, who was appointed to oversee the Golden Dome project, warned that adversaries are intent on placing the U.S. at risk by building space weapons. Trump claimed that the Golden Dome will be capable of intercepting space-launched missiles. Zhang Xiaogang, spokesperson for the Chinese Defense Ministry, said on Thursday: "We urge the U.S. side to stop expanding military build-up in space, and take concrete actions to uphold global strategic stability." U.S. President Donald Trump said on May 20: "Once fully constructed, the Golden Dome will be capable of intercepting missiles even if they are launched from other sides of the world and even if they are launched from space, and we will have the best system ever built." U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said on May 20: "Our goal is peace through strength. Golden Dome ensures that the American homeland is not left exposed while adversaries develop more advanced and lethal long-range weapons." It remains to be seen whether China will counter the Golden Dome by developing more advanced missiles capable of evading defense systems and targeting the U.S. Related Articles Photos Show US Aircraft Carrier Preparing for Patrol on Pacific Front LineAmerican Drone Company Claims Major Breakthrough Over Chinese CompetitorsChinese Bombers Seen in South China Sea Amid US Aircraft Carrier PatrolU.S. Ally Looks to Buy Chinese J-35 Stealth Jets 2025 NEWSWEEK DIGITAL LLC.
Newsweek
3 days ago
- Politics
- Newsweek
China Warns US Over Trump's 'Golden Dome'
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. The Chinese military has issued a warning to the United States over President Donald Trump's Golden Dome missile defense program, claiming it would open a "Pandora's box." When asked for a response, the Pentagon referred Newsweek to an earlier statement issued by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who said the $175 billion initiative would "protect our nation from aerial attacks from any foe" by deploying interceptors and sensors in space. Why It Matters On May 20, Trump announced his administration's preferred concept for the Golden Dome program, which he said is expected to be fully operational before the end of his term in 2029. The missile defense system will see the U.S. deploy weapons in space to intercept missiles for the first time. China previously warned that the proposed "highly offensive" U.S. defense system violates the principle of the peaceful use of space. "It will exacerbate the risk of turning outer space into a battlefield and starting an arms race," Beijing's foreign ministry said on May 21. Russia and North Korea—both quasi-allies of China—have also slammed the U.S. for undermining strategic stability and turning space into a potential nuclear battlefield. What To Know Zhang Xiaogang, spokesperson for the Chinese Defense Ministry, accused the U.S. at a press conference on Thursday of "continuously" expanding its military build-up and stoking an arms race in space, thereby violating the "relevant principles" of the Outer Space Treaty. The treaty prohibits the placing of nuclear weapons or other weapons of mass destruction in Earth's orbit, on celestial bodies, or in outer space, according to the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs. The deployment of the Golden Dome system would "heighten the risk of turning space into a war zone and triggering a space arms race," the Chinese military spokesperson said. United States President Donald Trump speaks about the Golden Dome missile defense program in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, D.C., on May 20, 2025. United States President Donald Trump speaks about the Golden Dome missile defense program in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, D.C., on May 20, 2025. Alex Brandon/AP Photo "Its actions will once again open a Pandora's box. This proves again that no country has done more than the U.S. in militarizing space and making it a battlefield," Zhang added. In his statement issued shortly after Trump's announcement, Hegseth mentioned that some of America's space technologies—including space-based sensors and air and missile defense—already exist, but they need to be "seamlessly integrated" to comprise a complete system. Space Force General Michael Guetlein, who was appointed to oversee the Golden Dome project, warned that adversaries are intent on placing the U.S. at risk by building space weapons. Trump claimed that the Golden Dome will be capable of intercepting space-launched missiles. What People Are Saying Zhang Xiaogang, spokesperson for the Chinese Defense Ministry, said on Thursday: "We urge the U.S. side to stop expanding military build-up in space, and take concrete actions to uphold global strategic stability." U.S. President Donald Trump said on May 20: "Once fully constructed, the Golden Dome will be capable of intercepting missiles even if they are launched from other sides of the world and even if they are launched from space, and we will have the best system ever built." U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said on May 20: "Our goal is peace through strength. Golden Dome ensures that the American homeland is not left exposed while adversaries develop more advanced and lethal long-range weapons." What Happens Next It remains to be seen whether China will counter the Golden Dome by developing more advanced missiles capable of evading defense systems and targeting the U.S.
Al Etihad
7 days ago
- Science
- Al Etihad
UAE hosts Artemis Accords workshop with representatives from 30 countries
26 May 2025 14:49 ABU DHABI (WAM)The UAE, represented by the UAE Space Agency, recently hosted a workshop on the Artemis Accords at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). This gathering brought together delegates from over 30 of the 55 signatory nations, reaffirming their commitment to promoting peaceful, transparent, and sustainable space workshop aims to reinforce the principles of peaceful and responsible space exploration and discuss future approaches to foster a shared commitment to transparency, information exchange, space heritage protection, and ensuring sustainability in outer space workshop focused on advancing the implementation of the Artemis Accords' principles, including non-interference, interoperability, orbital debris mitigation, scientific data sharing, registration of space objects, and outreach engaged in a tabletop exercise designed to simulate potential scenarios, fostering collaborative approaches to responsible space of Sports and Chairman of UAE Space Agency, Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, said, 'The UAE's commitment to strengthening international cooperation and fostering responsible space exploration reflects values that lie at the heart of the Artemis Accords. Through this workshop, we aim to promote a peaceful, transparent, and sustainable space for future generations.'Al Falasi added, 'As we witness the evolution of space activities, international collaboration frameworks are becoming highly essential. The Artemis Accords stand as a beacon to ensure that as humanity reaches further into space, we do so while maintaining openness, safety, and mutual respect, so space remains a domain of peace and opportunity for all.'The Abu Dhabi workshop builds upon previous meetings held in Poland (2023) and Canada (2024) to share best practices, address emerging challenges, and strengthen the collective commitment to sustainable space in 2020 by the USA with the participation of seven countries - including the UAE - the Artemis Accords are a non-binding set of principles designed to guide civil space exploration towards more sustainable and safe operations. The Artemis Accords are consistent with relevant international treaties, including the Outer Space Treaty, the Registration Convention, and the Agreement on the Rescue and Return of Astronauts.
Mint
25-05-2025
- Business
- Mint
US' Golden Dome missile shield: Pete Hegseth rebuts China's ‘space militarization' accusations
US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth firmly denied China's assertions that the Golden Dome missile defense project would militarize space. Speaking to Fox News Digital while leaving Fort Bragg, North Carolina, Hegseth said, 'All we care about is protecting the homeland.' Hegseth emphasised that the Golden Dome project is aimed at safeguarding the US against emerging missile threats rather than escalating conflict. Chinese Foreign Minister Mao Ning criticised the project this week, accusing it of having a 'strong offensive nature' that violates the Outer Space Treaty's principles of peaceful use. Mao warned, 'The project will heighten the risk of turning space into a war zone and creating a space arms race and shake the international security and arms control system.' China urged Washington to abandon the initiative to prevent destabilising global security. Russia's response was more measured. Sergei Ryabkov, Russia's deputy foreign minister, acknowledged 'serious concern' but dismissed the need for panic. A Kremlin spokesperson noted that Golden Dome could 'force talks between Moscow and Washington about nuclear arms control in the foreseeable future,' hinting at diplomatic engagement over the new system. President Donald Trump, along with Hegseth, unveiled the ambitious Golden Dome plan, estimating it will cost $175 billion and take three years to complete. The system intends to counter advanced missile threats from China, Russia, North Korea, Iran, and non-state actors. Trump described Golden Dome as a 'generational investment' critical to his 'America First' defense policy. The multilayered shield will include ground- and space-based interceptors capable of destroying missiles during all four stages of an attack — from launch detection to terminal interception. 'This is about protecting American lives,' Trump stated, noting the system's expected completion by the end of his term in 2029. Key contractors likely to contribute include SpaceX, Palantir, Anduril, L3Harris, Lockheed Martin, and RTX Corp. SpaceX's involvement is notable given CEO Elon Musk's close ties to Trump. However, funding remains uncertain. Republican lawmakers have proposed an initial $25 billion investment within a broader $150 billion defense package. Yet, this is tied to a reconciliation bill facing significant opposition in Congress. Golden Dome revives elements of Ronald Reagan's Cold War-era Strategic Defense Initiative (SDI), famously dubbed 'Star Wars.' While SDI never materialised due to technological and treaty challenges, Golden Dome seeks to address new missile threats with advanced technology. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney confirmed discussions with the US about joining Golden Dome, highlighting Canada's interest in missile defense. 'Is it a good idea for Canada? Yes, it is good to have protections in place for Canadians,' Carney said. He added that Canada faces potential missile threats 'in the not-too-distant future' and stressed that cooperation with the US will be evaluated carefully. 'We cooperate if necessary but not necessarily cooperate,' Carney noted, reflecting a cautious approach to the traditionally close Canada-US defense partnership.
Yahoo
25-05-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Hegseth denies China's claim that Golden Dome is ‘offensive': ‘Protecting the homeland'
Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth denied China's claim the Golden Dome would turn space into a "war zone." "All we care about is protecting the homeland," Hegseth told Fox News Digital while departing from a trip to Fort Bragg, North Carolina. President Donald Trump has said for a long time defense of the homeland is critical to his "America First" policy, and the Golden Dome is a generational investment. Chinese Foreign Minister Mao Ning claimed this week the Golden Dome has a "strong offensive nature and violates the principle of peaceful use in the Outer Space Treaty." China Accuses Us Of 'Turning Space Into A Warzone' With Trump's Golden Dome Missile Defense Project "The project will heighten the risk of turning space into a war zone and creating a space arms race and shake the international security and arms control system," Mao said. "We urge the U.S. to give up developing and deploying global anti-missile system." Read On The Fox News App Trump, alongside Hegseth, released some details about the project earlier in the week, explaining there's an ambitious plan to complete the missile defense shield in three years for $125 billion. Hegseth also responded to pushback over his decision to kick off a monthly Christian prayer service at the Pentagon, which sparked a debate over religious freedom and the separation of church and state. "We've said it very publicly, and we've said it very proudly. Appealing to heaven, to God, is a longstanding tradition in our military," Hegseth said, adding that George Washington got on bended knee alongside his continental Army forces. "I appeal to Jesus Christ for that protection, to speak that word and be open and willing to talk about it at the Pentagon. If they want to criticize that, they're on the wrong side," he said. His remarks came after he addressed the 82nd Airborne Division of Army paratroopers during "All-American Week." There, he celebrated the name change of the North Carolina base from Fort Liberty back to Fort Bragg. "It is Fort Bragg again," Hegseth said to cheers from the crowd. "Nothing wrong with Fort Liberty. Give me liberty or give me death. I love it," Hegseth said. "But give me Fort Bragg every day of the week." He also addressed critics who said he didn't have the strategic experience to serve as secretary of defense, and took a shot at the media. "Our friends in the fake news media are here," Hegseth said. "Some of them said, 'Critics might say you can't choose an Army major to be the secretary of defense. It has to be, well, one of our many distinguished generals or congressmen or business leaders or corporate leaders.' Trump, Hegseth Announce 'Golden Dome,' A 'Game Changer' To Protect American Homeland "One of the critiques was we need somebody that can think strategically, big picture. We can't have a guy who thinks like the troops, to which I say 'Hell, yeah, we can have a guy that thinks like the troops.'" He told a crowd of Army paratroopers, "I've been in that formation, loosening my knees, taking a deep breath, gazing over the horizon, sweating and wondering what time it is, but I can't move my arm. I've been in your boots — not yours. The 101st is not the 82nd. I'll admit that on a day like today. Not quite your boots or your beret, but close." Hegseth announced an increase in jump pay for paratroopers to more cheers from the crowd. Hazardous duty incentive pay, known as "jump pay" for Army troopers who jump out of airplanes, will increase from $150 a month to $200. Jump masters, the senior paratroopers who train and lead jump operations, will see their pay increase from $150 to $300. "Here's to our paratroopers, our jumpmasters, who do the difficult things in difficult places that most Americans can never imagine," Hegseth said. Since 2006, the Army has maintained 56,756 paid parachutist positions, according to Gen. Gregory Anderson, head of the 18th Airborne Corps. That number will decrease by 20,000, allowing for the increase in pay for those who do maintain their jump status. Limited aircraft ability and resources has meant a "degradation in proficiency," Anderson told reporters. "The goal has to be really good quality over quantity."Original article source: Hegseth denies China's claim that Golden Dome is 'offensive': 'Protecting the homeland'
