Trump budget seeks $1.5T in defense spending alongside cuts in domestic programs (apnews.com)

• 1.5 trillion USD defense budget proposal.
• Deep cuts to non-military domestic programs.
• Strategic prioritization of hard power over soft power.

"The proposed US budget allocates 1.5 trillion USD to defense spending, marking a strategic pivot that favors military expansion over domestic programs. By diverting funds from social services and civilian infrastructure, the administration aims to solidify its defense posture. For Europe, this shift suggests a move toward unilateral military focus, potentially reducing US engagement in traditional developmental and collaborative initiatives. The realignment forces a re-evaluation of European strategic autonomy, as the dependency on US resources becomes increasingly tied to a defense-heavy fiscal agenda that leaves limited room for non-military cooperation."