The Kremlin stated on Wednesday that U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposed missile defense system, dubbed the “Golden Dome,” is a “sovereign issue” for the United States. This comment came as a softer response compared to their earlier stance that the initiative could undermine global security.

Trump initiated the project shortly after his inauguration in January, asserting that the system would position missile interceptors in space to protect against both ballistic and hypersonic threats. On Tuesday, he provided some preliminary funding information, emphasizing that the system was vital for the nation’s success and survival.

“This is an internal matter for the United States. If they perceive a missile threat, it stands to reason that the U.S. will work on a missile defense system,” Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told journalists. “This is a common approach taken by countries globally,” he added, suggesting that ongoing dialogue would eventually be needed to “reestablish strategic stability,” indicating the necessity for renewed nuclear arms discussions.

Peskov’s comments followed a phone conversation between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, which the U.S. president described as having gone “very well.”

Earlier this month, Moscow criticized the “Golden Dome” proposal, cautioning it could lead to the militarization of outer space. In a joint statement, Russia and China labeled the initiative as “highly destabilizing.”

The name “Golden Dome” parallels Israel’s Iron Dome air defense system, which has intercepted thousands of short-range rockets since 2011. In contrast, the U.S. version is intended to combat long-range and hypersonic threats.

China, which has strengthened its strategic alliance with Russia in recent years, reiterated its opposition to the U.S. plan on Wednesday, labeling it a danger to international security.