Washington, Dec 17, 2002 - Today's announcement by the Administration of a plan to deploy a national missile defense (NMD) system will cost taxpayers hundreds of billions of dollars for a system that has been proven not to work, and fails to recognize the true threats to our nation, stated Congressman Dennis J. Kucinich (D-OH) today.

Kucinich, Ranking Member on the House Government Reform Subcommittee on National Security, Veterans Affairs and International Relations, today issued the following statement:

"The greatest threats to our national security cannot be stopped by a national missile defense (NMD). The Missile defense program has constantly been a failure, even in tests as recently as last week, and does not address the true threats to our nation.

"The Department of Defense is now procuring charades and illusions and defending the country with make-believe and calling them national security.

"Although proven a failure, NMD will cost taxpayers hundreds of billions of dollars and is an expensive distraction we cannot afford.

"Our country must learn a lesson from the tragic events of September 11th. At this critical time, it is urgent that our nation focus its resources towards truly protecting the American people.

"To ensure our nation's security we must work with the international community to reduce nuclear weapons worldwide. Today's action, and the recent withdrawal from the 1972 Anti-Ballistic Missile (ABM) Treaty, send a dangerous signal to the world community, and could encourage other nations to increase their nuclear arsenals."

Kucinich is the lead plaintiff in a lawsuit against the Administration brought forward by 31 Members of Congress to block the withdrawal from the ABM Treaty.