China Accuses U.S. of 'Turning Space Into a Warzone' Over Trump's Golden Dome Defense Project

May 22, Kathmandu-China has strongly criticized the United States' proposed "Golden Dome" missile defense system, accusing it of militarizing space and threatening global strategic stability. Announced by former President Donald Trump, the $175 billion initiative aims to deploy a multi-layered missile defense shield—including space-based interceptors—to defend against advanced threats from nations like China and Russia. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning voiced "serious concern," warning that the project has "strong offensive implications" and risks sparking a new arms race by encouraging other countries to expand their military capabilities. Modeled after Israel's Iron Dome but far more ambitious, the Golden Dome seeks to neutralize not only short-range projectiles but also intercontinental ballistic missiles and hypersonic weapons, relying on a vast network of satellites and potential collaboration with private firms like SpaceX and Palantir. Critics caution that such a system could destabilize the global balance of power, as adversaries may respond by developing more advanced offensive weapons. Moreover, the enormous cost and technical complexity of deploying space-based defenses raise serious questions about the project's feasibility and effectiveness. China's condemnation underscores growing international concern over the militarization of space and the urgent need for dialogue on space security and missile defense policies.