US Plans Resumption of Nuclear Tests After 30 Years Amid Rising Global Tensions

President Trump announced his intention to resume nuclear weapons testing, a practice dormant for over 30 years, citing the need to maintain parity with Russia and China amid rising global military tensions. The White House has provided limited details, leaving military officials and experts uncertain about the specific nature of the tests, whether missile flight tests or underground detonations. This move marks a significant policy shift from the longstanding U.S. norm against nuclear testing since 1992, potentially undermining international treaties like the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty, which the U.S. has not ratified but supports through verification measures. The Kremlin warned that Russia would respond in kind if nuclear testing resumes, underscoring heightened geopolitical risks. President Trump framed the decision as necessary for national security and competitiveness, directing the Department of War to initiate testing immediately. The announcement coincided with a successful meeting between Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, during which they discussed trade and tariffs, signaling complex diplomatic dynamics.