A significant shift in U.S. nuclear policy is underway, with Donald Trump ordering a resumption of testing based on his claims of “secret” foreign tests. China, a primary target of the allegation, has issued a comprehensive denial.
“I have instructed the Department of War to start testing our Nuclear Weapons on an equal basis,” Trump posted on Truth Social. He claimed this was a necessary response to the “testing programs” of other countries.
In a ‘60 minutes’ interview, he specifically named Russia, China, North Korea, and Pakistan as nations currently testing. “I don’t want to be the only country that doesn’t test,” he stated.
China’s foreign ministry responded that the claims were false. A spokesperson reiterated that China has “abided by its commitment to suspend nuclear testing” and maintains a “responsible” nuclear posture.
The U.S. has not conducted a nuclear explosion since 1992, and Trump’s order has created confusion about what “testing” now entails. His directive follows closely on the heels of Russia’s test of its Burevestnik nuclear-powered cruise missile.