Trump Announces US Nuclear Testing Resumption After 30-Year Hiatus
President Donald Trump has announced a significant shift in U.S. nuclear policy. In a recent statement, he called for the resumption of nuclear weapons testing, marking the first such tests in over 30 years. This decision is driven by the need to keep pace with military advancements in countries like Russia and China.
Trump’s Call for Nuclear Testing Resumption
During a social media post, Trump noted, “Because of other countries’ testing programs, I have instructed the Department of War to start testing our Nuclear Weapons on an equal basis.” This statement was made just before his meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in South Korea.
Background and Context
The last U.S. nuclear test occurred on September 3, 1992, at a site in Nevada. Since then, testing has been halted under a moratorium established after the Cold War. Presently, the U.S. possesses the largest nuclear arsenal, with estimates suggesting around 5,177 to 5,225 warheads.
- U.S.: 5,177-5,225 warheads
- Russia: Approximately 5,459-5,580 warheads
- China: About 600 warheads
- France: 290 warheads
- United Kingdom: 225 warheads
- India: 180 warheads
- Pakistan: 170 warheads
- Israel: 90 warheads
- North Korea: 50 warheads
Additionally, Trump has expressed concern about China’s expanding nuclear capabilities, indicating they could potentially double within the next five years.
Concerns and Implications
This announcement comes amid heightened tensions resulting from Russia’s recent nuclear tests, including a missile capable of bypassing defenses, and an underwater drone named Poseidon, which threatens the U.S. West Coast.
Experts and legislators have raised alarms regarding the potential consequences of resuming nuclear tests. Daryl G. Kimball, executive director of the Arms Control Association, criticized the move, stating it would provoke public opposition and destabilize nuclear arms treaties.
Moreover, Representative Dina Titus, who represents Nevada, has vowed to introduce legislation against restarting nuclear tests, citing public concerns in the state.
Future Considerations
Trump’s announcement is particularly notable as it is timed around the upcoming expiration of the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (New START) in February 2026. This treaty limits both the U.S. and Russia to 1,550 deployed warheads.
As discussions on nuclear policy unfold, the implications of these developments will be closely monitored by both domestic and international observers.
