During a press conference on Thursday, Wu Qian, spokesperson for China's Ministry of National Defense, called on the United States to adopt an \"America First\" approach by being the first to reduce its nuclear arsenal and overall military expenditure.
Wu emphasized that the United States, possessing the world's largest nuclear arsenal, holds the primary responsibility for nuclear disarmament. He urged for significant and meaningful reductions in the U.S. nuclear stockpile.
This statement comes in response to U.S. President Donald Trump's recent declarations regarding intentions to engage in nuclear arms control discussions with China and Russia, alongside proposals to halve the defense budgets of these three nations.
Reiterating China's stance, Wu stated that the nation adheres to a policy of no first use of nuclear weapons, maintains a self-defense nuclear strategy, and sustains its nuclear capabilities at the minimal level necessary for national security.
Addressing the broader defense budget, Wu pointed out that the United States has maintained the highest defense spending globally for many years, exceeding the combined expenditures of the following eight countries.
\"I believe that the United States should put into practice 'America First' in this regard and be the first to cut its nuclear arsenal and military expenditure,\" Wu concluded.
Reference(s):
U.S. should cut own military expenditure first: Chinese spokesperson
cgtn.com
