President Donald Trump has ordered the United States military to resume testing nuclear weapons for the first time in 33 years. This directive came just minutes before a critical meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Busan, South Korea. Trump announced the decision on Truth Social while en route to the meeting aboard his Marine One helicopter.
In his statement, Trump instructed the Pentagon to initiate nuclear testing on an “equal basis” with other nuclear powers. He emphasized the urgency of this action in light of ongoing nuclear programs in Russia and China. “Because of other countries’ testing programs, I have instructed the Department of War to start testing our Nuclear Weapons on an equal basis. That process will begin immediately,” Trump wrote.
The President did not specify whether the testing would involve nuclear-explosive tests or the flight testing of nuclear-capable missiles. His announcement follows a period of significant expansion in China’s nuclear arsenal, which has reportedly increased from around 300 weapons in 2020 to an estimated 600 by 2025, according to the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS). The think tank further projects that China could possess over 1,000 nuclear weapons by 2030.
Trump’s decision aligns with recent developments, including Russia’s announcement of a successful test of a nuclear-powered cruise missile and a nuclear-powered torpedo. Speaking from Air Force One earlier this week, Trump criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin for prioritizing missile testing over efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
As tensions escalate, the implications of Trump’s order may extend beyond military readiness. The announcement has raised concerns among global leaders regarding the potential for renewed arms races in an already volatile geopolitical landscape.
The strategic significance of the timing cannot be overlooked. Trump’s meeting with Xi in Busan is critical for discussions on trade and regional security. As both leaders engage in negotiations, the backdrop of renewed nuclear testing could influence the dynamics of their discussions.
As the international community watches closely, the ramifications of the resumed nuclear testing could redefine security protocols and diplomatic relations among nuclear powers. The decision underscores the delicate balance of power and the ongoing challenges of non-proliferation efforts globally.
