WSJ: Trump proposes “Golden Fleet” of warships to counter China

US President Donald Trump is seeking to create a new armada of warships, dubbed the “Golden Fleet,” aimed at countering the threat from China, The Wall Street Journal reports.

While overseeing a major demolition of the White House’s historic East Wing, Trump has also turned his attention to modernizing the U.S. Navy’s fleet. According to the report, Navy officials and senior Trump aides are discussing an ambitious plan for a fleet designed to deter potential future threats from China.

The proposed plans come ahead of Trump’s anticipated high-stakes meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping during his first visit to Asia since returning to power.

Warships in the so-called Golden Fleet would reportedly be equipped with long-range missiles, reflecting concerns about China’s rapid modernisation of its naval forces. The Pentagon and White House are also in early discussions about building a new 15,000- to 20,000-ton heavily armoured ship, potentially armed with hypersonic missiles, the report added.

Separately, tensions on the Pakistan-Afghanistan border have escalated. Pakistan launched airstrikes across the border, and both sides exchanged heavy fire, killing dozens and prompting the closure of key crossings. Islamabad accuses Kabul of sheltering militants who target Pakistani forces, while the Taliban reject the accusation and say Pakistan’s operations violate Afghan sovereignty.

By Khagan Isayev