President Donald Trump has instructed the Department of War to resume nuclear weapons testing, a practice that has been dormant in the United States since 1992. The directive was issued shortly before his meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Busan, South Korea. The President highlighted the necessity of these tests to ensure the United States retains its strategic superiority as other nations progress their nuclear capabilities.
"The United States has more Nuclear Weapons than any other country," President Trump declared, attributing this status to advancements made during his first term. Despite his aversion to the destructive nature of these weapons, he stated, "I HATED to do it, but had no choice!"
President Trump expressed concern over the global nuclear landscape, intimating that Russia holds second place in nuclear arsenals, with China trailing but rapidly advancing. His decision to renew nuclear testing is a reaction to other countries' testing programs, aiming to match these developments on an "equal basis." He announced that the testing process would start immediately.
While the U.S. military regularly conducts tests involving missiles capable of delivering nuclear warheads, actual detonation of nuclear devices ceased following a test ban over three decades ago. The announcement came against the backdrop of heightened trade tensions with China, which President Trump rekindled upon returning to office this year. Nevertheless, a 10% reduction in China's tariff burden was also revealed, following Xi's commitment to combat fentanyl trafficking. President Trump expressed optimism about this development, expecting "real action" against the drug's distribution.
During their meeting, both leaders acknowledged existing frictions but managed a cordial exchange. President Trump commended Xi as a "tough negotiator" and announced a resolution concerning the trade of rare earth minerals, essential for the U.S. tech industry. This agreement seemingly removes any obstacles regarding these critical resources.
The timing of President Trump's order is noteworthy, as it follows reports of Russia's successful testing of a nuclear-powered cruise missile, dubbed "unstoppable" by Moscow. However, President Trump downplayed this development, citing the deterrence provided by American nuclear submarines positioned near adversarial coasts. He emphasized the importance of Russia concluding its prolonged conflict in Ukraine rather than focusing on missile tests.
The Kremlin, responding through spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, maintained a stance of national interest, insisting that Russia's weapons development is vital for their security and should not strain relations with the United States.
As the international community digests this significant shift in U.S. defense policy, the implications for global stability, arms control, and geopolitical dynamics remain to be fully understood.
