President Donald Trump has proposed a significant reduction in the Department of Defense budget, aiming to cut 40% over the next five years. This bold move intends to reallocate funds towards priorities such as border security and developing an “Iron Dome” defense system for the United States. The proposed cuts would amount to approximately $50 billion annually, which will be redirected to programs aligned with Trump’s defense strategies.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has been tasked with identifying areas where spending can be reduced. The focus will be on cutting expenditures related to diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, as well as climate change programs. Hegseth has emphasized the need to revive the warrior ethos, rebuild the military, and reestablish deterrence.
Currently, the Pentagon’s budget is around $850 billion. The proposed 40% cut over five years translates to an 8% reduction each year, cumulatively reaching the 40% target. This proposal is expected to face significant challenges in Congress, as lawmakers from both parties have historically supported maintaining or increasing defense spending.
Sources:
https://apnews.com/article/trump-pentagon-cuts-8-troops-budget-09ed8f0f5ae92a93b3c1705c9d2dcc1c
https://thehill.com/policy/defense/5156006-hegseth-defense-budget-cuts-what-to-know/
https://www.cbsnews.com/news/hegseth-pentagon-8-percent-cuts-for-next-5-years/