The Hill reported Thursday that Trump urged the Senate to quickly pass a $350
billion defense-focused budget reconciliation package, citing the narrowing
window for GOP control of Congress. The Pentagon says the funds are critical to
strengthen forces, expand the defense industrial base and ensure national
security. House Republicans warned last month they could block the GOP-led
reconciliation plan unless the administration takes a tougher line on Russia,
leaving passage uncertain. The package earmarks roughly $47bn to expand
munitions production, $17bn for a homeland-defense "dome" system, more than
$48bn for critical minerals, and about $103bn for low-cost autonomous systems,
artificial intelligence and counter-UAS capabilities.
