Defense Discussions
President Trump has turned his budget-cutting gaze on the Defense Department, which currently accounts for 13% of federal spending.
Trump floated the idea of a U.S.-China-Russia summit to discuss trilateral defense reforms, including ending new nuclear weapons production and eventually cutting each country’s military spending in half. The Commander in Chief says the countries “already have so many” nuclear warheads and could allocate saved dollars (or yuan or rubles) towards “things that are actually, hopefully much more productive.”
Chinese officials said they wouldn’t join denuclearization talks unless the U.S. and Russia “substantially reduce their nuclear arsenals.”
Critics argue that cutting defense spending conflicts with Trump’s promises to strengthen the military and his executive order for an “American Iron Dome” missile-defense system. Defense stocks were also unenthused; Lockheed Martin, RTX, and Northrop Grumman fell 3%-7%.
CHRISTIAN REFLECTION
Believers may disagree about how governments should spend taxpayer dollars, but commands for Christians’ wallets are crystal clear: prioritize heavenly treasure, generously help the needy, and run from greed. Are you rich toward God in your personal spending habits?
“But seek his kingdom, and these things will be provided for you. Don’t be afraid, little flock, because your Father delights to give you the kingdom. Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Make money-bags for yourselves that won’t grow old, an inexhaustible treasure in heaven, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
Luke 12:31–34 (CSB) (read full passage)