Chinese Defense Ministry Criticizes US Defense Spending and Cybersecurity Accusations

On Wednesday, the Chinese Defense Ministry expressed strong opposition to the United States' proposed defense budget for fiscal year 2026, which could reach $1 trillion. Spokesperson Zhang Xiaogang criticized the budget as evidence of the U.S.'s aggressive approach and its reliance on the principle of "might makes right," suggesting that such spending is reckless given the U.S.'s substantial national debt.

Zhang further emphasized that the U.S. government should abandon its pursuit of hegemony, warning that an excessive reliance on force would not result in America regaining its greatness. Instead, he argued, it would lead to suffering both for the American people and globally.

Additionally, Zhang took issue with the U.S. Office of the Director of National Intelligence's 2025 Annual Threat Assessment, which labeled China as the primary military and cyber threat to the U.S. He asserted that such accusations are unfounded, insisting that the U.S. is instead the predominant source of cyber threats, including a history of cyber intrusions against China and other nations.

He pointed out the U.S.'s troubling history regarding cyber surveillance and attacks, referencing notable incidents such as WikiLeaks and the disclosures by Edward Snowden. In conclusion, Zhang called on the U.S. to cease its cyberattacks and to contribute to creating a safe and responsible cyberspace.