France's foreign minister criticized the Trump administration's approach to the Hormuz Strait issue, while the White House plans a defense budget of $1.5 trillion by 2027.

French Minister Criticizes U.S. Approach to Hormuz Strait Issue; White House: Trump Administration Aims to Increase Defense Budget to $1.5 Trillion by 2027

Benjamin Haddad, France's senior representative for European affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, criticized remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump calling on other countries to independently resolve issues related to the Hormuz Strait, in response to a question about the possibility of restoring shipping through the strait. Haddad stated that it was Washington itself that had created the crisis situation in the region.

Previously, U.S. President Donald Trump said that America does not need the Hormuz Strait, and that nations relying on the strait to import oil should ensure the safe passage of their vessels on their own.

In addressing the potential restoration of shipping through the Hormuz Strait, Haddad said: "You cannot first create a certain situation yourself, then demand others solve the problem."

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The White House budget document states that the Trump administration plans to increase defense spending to a record $1.5 trillion in fiscal year 2027.

The document says: "This budget builds upon the historic $1 trillion defense spending in fiscal year 2026, and will request $1.5 trillion for defense in 2027. This amount represents an increase of $44.5 billion over the 2026 total budget—up 42%."

The document adds that non-defense spending has been reduced by $73 billion, or 10%, with savings partially achieved by cutting or eliminating so-called 'woke' projects deemed wasteful.

In the budget justification statement, the White House said: "The fiscal year 2027 budget request plans for the construction of 18 new combat vessels for the Navy, 16 auxiliary vessels, and five additional ships for the Army and Coast Guard."

The document indicates that $65.8 billion is allocated for building 34 vessels, including 18 combat ships and 16 auxiliary ships.

Original article: toutiao.com/article/1861465355252748/

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