China Says Defence Spending 'Entirely Necessary' After Putin Backs Mutual Cuts

AFP | Beijing, China
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China has defended its defense spending, calling it "entirely necessary" following Russian President Vladimir Putin's endorsement of a proposal by U.S. President Donald Trump to cut the defense budgets of Russia, the United States, and China by 50 percent.

Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the country has significantly increased its military spending. Similarly, China has also boosted its defense budget in response to ongoing tensions in the Asia-Pacific region.

"China has always adhered faithfully to the path of peaceful development," stated Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian during a press briefing. He emphasized that China's defense expenditure is essential for protecting the nation's sovereignty, security, and development interests, and for maintaining global peace.

Lin further highlighted that China remains committed to balancing economic and defense development, while avoiding engaging in an arms race with any country.

These remarks followed a phone call between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Putin, during which the leaders discussed the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. In a televised interview, Putin expressed support for Trump’s idea of reducing defense budgets, though he stated that he could not speak on behalf of China.

Earlier this month, Beijing's foreign ministry suggested that the United States should "take the lead" in any proposed military spending cuts, reinforcing the global debate on defense expenditure and security priorities.