Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has directed the Pentagon to slash 8% from its budget each year for the next five years, reallocating funds toward President Donald Trump’s priorities, including border security and a proposed U.S. Iron Dome missile defense system.
Robert Salesses, acting deputy secretary of defense, stated Wednesday that the cuts aim to “revive the warrior ethos” while eliminating spending on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives and climate-related programs. The reductions, totaling approximately $50 billion annually, will help fund Trump’s defense initiatives, including missile defense capabilities extending into space.
The directive comes as the military scrambles to prepare its fiscal 2026 budget. The cuts rival the 2013 sequestration, which led to reductions in training, personnel, and operational readiness. While major procurement programs and military entitlements remain protected, critics warn that cuts to operations and maintenance could impact force readiness.
It remains unclear which specific climate-related or DEI programs will be eliminated. The Pentagon has yet to provide further details.
Source
- CBS News – MBFC Rating
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