The Voice News: President Donald Trump recently unveiled plans for a new space-based missile defense system called the “Golden Dome”, promising to shield the United States from global missile threats. Modeled after Israel’s “Iron Dome,” this ambitious project would involve a network of satellites, sensors, and interceptors designed to stop missiles from anywhere in the world.
However, the plan—still years away from being operational—is drawing sharp criticism from America’s global rivals, who view it as a step toward the militarization of outer space and a potential trigger for a new arms race.
North Korea
On May 27, North Korea’s foreign ministry issued a statement denouncing the Golden Dome as an “outer space nuclear war scenario” and a product of “America First” arrogance. The statement accused the U.S. of using the guise of defense to justify space militarization and expand its global dominance.
North Korea, which conducted 47 missile tests in 2024, including intercontinental ballistic missiles capable of reaching the U.S., sees the Golden Dome as a threat to global security. It reportedly possesses 70–90 nuclear weapons and continues to grow its arsenal, according to the Arms Control Association.
Russia
Even before Trump formally announced the Golden Dome, Russia, along with China, called the concept “deeply destabilizing” in a joint statement. They warned it ignored the link between offensive and defensive strategic weapons and pledged to resist turning outer space into a battlefield.
Following Trump’s official announcement, the Kremlin adopted a more reserved tone. Spokesman Dmitry Peskov acknowledged the U.S. right to defend itself and stated that Russia would not assess the threat to nuclear balance until more details emerged. Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov added that Russia’s advanced strategic systems are built to overcome any missile defense, including layered ones.
Despite sanctions limiting its space programs, Russia’s missile capabilities remain formidable. U.S. intelligence estimates that by 2035, Russia could field 1,000 hypersonic weapons, 5,000 cruise missiles, and 400 ICBMs.
China
China echoed Russia’s concerns and urged Trump to abandon the Golden Dome project. Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning warned that the system could trigger a space arms race and undermine global security.
The U.S. Defense Department regards China as a growing missile threat. A 2024 Pentagon report identified China as having the world’s largest hypersonic missile stockpile, with more than 600 nuclear warheads and 400 ICBMs. China has also enhanced its domestic air and missile defense systems while incorporating Russian technologies.