Nixon talks about the defense budget as it relates to upcoming negotiations with the Soviet Union on nuclear arms limitations and reduction of forces in Europe. He says the defense budget is the lowest percentage of the gross national product its been in twenty years. Without military strength that commands respect we wouldn?t have made as much progress in the past year toward lasting peace. . If prior to these upcoming negotiations the U.S. unilaterally reduces its defense budget, or forces in Europe, any chance for successful negotiations for mutual reduction of forces or limitation of arms will be destroyed. There is one unbreakable rule of international diplomacy: you can?t get something in a negotiation unless you have something to give, If we cut our defenses before negotiations begin any incentive for other nations to cut theirs will go right out the window. DMA import part of AAPP grant]