President Donald Trump’s announcement of a proposed “Golden Dome” missile defense system—a space-based shield intended to protect the U.S. from global missile threats—has drawn strong criticism from international rivals, who view the plan as provocative and destabilizing.
Although still in early stages and facing major questions around feasibility and cost, the “Golden Dome” would feature an array of satellites, sensors, and interceptors designed to neutralize missiles launched from anywhere in the world. Critics warn it could escalate a new arms race and intensify the militarization of space.
North Korea condemned the plan as a dangerous push toward “outer space nuclear war,” calling it a reflection of U.S. arrogance and hegemonic ambitions. Its foreign ministry claimed the U.S. is using the project as a cover to militarize space and achieve comprehensive military superiority. With an expanding nuclear arsenal and frequent missile launches, North Korea views the system as a direct threat.
Russia, alongside China, labeled the Golden Dome plan as “deeply destabilizing” in a joint statement, criticizing it for disregarding the balance between offensive and defensive arms and pushing warfare into space. While the Kremlin later downplayed its immediate concerns—calling it a U.S. internal matter—it warned that it would closely monitor the program. Russian officials emphasized that their advanced strategic systems are designed to penetrate any such missile defenses.
China has echoed Russia’s concerns and urged the U.S. to abandon the initiative. The Chinese Foreign Ministry warned that the project could turn space into a battleground and disrupt global security frameworks. With an advanced missile arsenal that includes hypersonic weapons and hundreds of ICBMs, China sees the Golden Dome as a potential catalyst for a space arms race.
