The US President, Donald Trump, has reiterated his intention to restart nuclear testing, stating that the process will begin “immediately.” This announcement comes after the US test-launched a Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile and Russian President Vladimir Putin warned of “appropriate retaliatory measures” if the US breaches its moratorium on nuclear tests.
Last week, Trump ordered the Department of War to prepare for nuclear testing, citing the need to match other countries’ testing programs. The US Air Force has since successfully test-fired an unarmed Minuteman III missile from Vandenberg Space Force Base. In a video statement posted on Truth Social, Trump said, “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.”
The video statement appears to be a repeat of Trump’s previous announcement, and it is unclear whether it was posted by the president himself or one of his aides. The White House has declined to comment, citing staff shortages due to the ongoing government shutdown.
Russia’s Defense Minister Andrey Belousov has stated that Moscow must respond to Washington’s steps and prepare for full-scale nuclear tests. However, Putin has indicated that such a move is premature as long as the US abides by the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty. The Russian leader has instructed government agencies to analyze US plans and submit proposals on preparing for nuclear weapons tests.
US Energy Secretary Chris Wright has clarified that the testing ordered by Trump will not involve live nuclear explosions, but rather “non-critical tests” as part of a broader modernization program. The Kremlin has stated that it was informed in advance about the latest Minuteman III launch and is waiting for clarification on the US president’s remarks.
The developments come after Russia’s recent weapons trials, including the launch of the new Burevestnik nuclear-powered cruise missile and the Poseidon underwater drone. The situation highlights the ongoing tensions between the US and Russia, with both countries engaging in a war of words over nuclear testing and modernization. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the US and Russia will proceed with their nuclear testing plans and what implications this will have for global security.