Sunday, 5th April 2026
Khabor Wala Desk
Published: 25th February 2025, 9:12 AM
MOSCOW, Feb 25, 2025 (BSS/AFP) – Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed support for a proposal by U.S. President Donald Trump to significantly reduce military expenditures. Trump suggested that Russia, the United States, and China each cut their defense budgets by 50 percent, a move that Putin described as a “good idea.”
Speaking in a televised interview, Putin stated, “The U.S. would cut by 50 percent, and we would cut by 50 percent, and then China could join if it wanted.”
While welcoming the proposal, Putin noted that he could not speak on behalf of China but emphasized that Russia was open to discussions with the United States on this matter.
“We could come to an agreement with the U.S. on cutting spending—we’re not against it,” he said, adding, “We think it’s a good proposal, and we are ready for a discussion about this.”
Since launching its offensive in Ukraine in 2022, Russia has significantly increased defense spending, fueling economic growth but also contributing to inflation. In 2024, Russia allocated approximately 8.7 percent of its GDP to defense and security—a figure that has raised concerns among economists and policymakers.
A potential reduction in military expenditures could help ease inflationary pressures in Russia, but it remains unclear whether China or the U.S. Congress would support such a drastic cut in defense budgets.
Trump’s proposal comes amid ongoing tensions between global powers, particularly over conflicts such as Ukraine and Taiwan. A substantial cut in military spending could reshape global power dynamics, but experts warn that security concerns, geopolitical rivalries, and defense industry interests could make such a deal difficult to achieve.
For now, Putin’s willingness to engage in discussions signals a rare potential avenue for diplomatic dialogue between Washington and Moscow at a time of heightened international uncertainty.
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