US President Donald Trump declared that the United States will immediately resume live nuclear weapons testing, abruptly ending a 33-year moratorium. The decision follows new weapons developments by Russia and China, spurring concerns of a renewed global arms race and shifting long-standing US nuclear doctrine.
Trump announced the move shortly before meeting China’s President Xi Jinping in South Korea, sparking debate over the impact on international arms control, with all three nations exchanging strong responses to the escalating nuclear competition.
“The United States has more Nuclear Weapons than any other country. Russia is second and China a distant third, but will be even within five years,” Trump said in a post. “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.”
US Nuclear Tests
President Trump’s statement is the first announcement of full-scale US nuclear tests since 1992, a historic break with decades of restraint. The last such test occurred at the Nevada Test Site, after which the US has relied on advanced computer simulations and subcritical experiments to sustain its arsenal.
Trump linked the decision to what he described as unchecked Russian and Chinese atomic advances while the US “stood still,” arguing that the resumption is essential for strategic parity. The timing of the announcement, just before a major diplomatic meeting, underlines the seriousness of Washington’s new approach to nuclear policy.
Global Nuclear Arms Race
The president cited recent Russian announcements of successful Burevestnik nuclear-powered cruise missile and Poseidon nuclear torpedo tests as key factors in his directive. Russian President Vladimir Putin meanwhile has intensified strategic drills, affirming Moscow’s readiness and showcasing advanced nuclear technology aimed at bypassing US defences.
China’s arsenal has reportedly doubled over five years, now exceeding 600 warheads according to think tanks, with forecasts suggesting that number could surpass 1,000 by 2030. Beijing’s parade of new delivery systems and China’s dismissal of trilateral arms control proposals have heightened anxiety about unchecked nuclear proliferation.
Trump’s administration contends the tests are “necessary,” referencing both strategic threats and America’s recent upgrades to its nuclear arsenal, asserting, “Because of the tremendous destructive power, I hated to do it, but had no choice.”
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
Nuclear testing marks a dangerous departure from efforts for global peace and stability. Nations must recognise that possessing destructive power demands responsibility and restraint, not escalation.
The Logical Indian believes in building a future rooted in dialogue, trust, and empathy, where mutual security prevails over mutual suspicion. This latest move by the US risks entrenching divisions and undermining collective efforts towards disarmament.
News in Q&A
1. What did President Trump declare and why?
Trump declared the immediate resumption of US nuclear weapon testing after more than three decades. His justification focuses on countering the rapid nuclear advancements by Russia and China, which he says necessitate an equal footing in nuclear weapons testing to maintain US deterrence capabilities.
2. When and where was this announced?
The announcement was made on October 29, 2025, via Trump’s social media platform, Truth Social, just an hour before he met Chinese President Xi Jinping in Busan, South Korea, during an Asian diplomatic tour addressing growing geopolitical tensions.
3. How does this change US nuclear policy?
The decision ends a 33-year voluntary US moratorium on live nuclear tests since September 1992, a critical norm in arms control. Though the US signed the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT), it never ratified it. The tests now planned mark a fundamental shift back to active demonstration of nuclear capability.
4. How have Russia and China reacted?
Russia condemned the move as destabilising international security and an invitation to escalate nuclear rivalry. China described it as a reckless provocation undermining diplomatic efforts. Both countries have been enhancing their nuclear arsenals, with Russia unveiling new missile systems and China doubling its warhead count to over 600, projected to potentially surpass 1,000 by 2030.
5. What are the international implications?
The resumption risks reviving a nuclear arms race at a time of heightened global tensions, threatening decades of diplomatic progress on non-proliferation and arms control. Experts warn that renewed testing sets a dangerous precedent that could undermine global security frameworks, urging a return to dialogue and restraint instead.
