Pentagon Cuts Threaten Programs That Secure Loose Nukes and Weapons of Mass Destruction
1 min read
Summary
US agencies tasked with preventing the global proliferation of weapons of mass destruction are facing cutbacks under the Trump administration’s policy of reducing all overseas spending.
A draft working paper seen by WIRED warns that reductions in spending on preventing WMD proliferation will increase the chances of a rogue state using chemical weapons.
Such cuts would also reduce America’s ability to fight organised crime in South America and counter the activities of extremist groups in the Middle East.
The departments of defense (DOD) and state are looking to make cuts of up to 75% to security cooperation and all forms of humanitarian assistance.
The DOD has also requested each of its agencies and services to consider the impact of a total funding cut.
One targeted agency, the Defense Threat Reduction Agency, leads U.S. efforts to counter the proliferation of chemical, biological, and nuclear threats.
