The U.S. President, Donald Trump, has reiterated his intention to restart nuclear testing, stating that the process will begin “immediately.” In a video 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 statement appears to repeat his earlier announcement, and it is unclear whether the video was posted by the president himself or by an aide. The White House declined to comment, citing staff shortages caused by the ongoing government shutdown.
Last week, Trump ordered the Department of War to prepare for nuclear testing, citing the need to match other countries’ programs. The U.S. Air Force subsequently test‑fired an unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile from Vandenberg Space Force Base. U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright clarified that the testing ordered by Trump will not involve live nuclear explosions but will consist of “non‑critical tests” as part of a broader modernization effort.
Russia’s response has been swift. President Vladimir Putin warned of “appropriate retaliatory measures” if the United States breaches its moratorium on nuclear tests. Defense Minister Andrey Belousov said Moscow must respond to Washington’s steps and prepare for full‑scale nuclear tests, while Putin indicated that such a move would be premature as long as the U.S. adheres to the Comprehensive Nuclear‑Test‑Ban Treaty. The Kremlin said it had been informed in advance about the recent Minuteman III launch and is awaiting clarification on the president’s remarks. Russian officials have instructed government agencies to analyze U.S. plans and submit proposals for preparing their own nuclear‑weapons tests.
The developments come amid Russia’s recent weapons trials, including the launch of the new Burevestnik nuclear‑powered cruise missile and the Poseidon underwater drone. The exchange underscores the ongoing tensions between the United States and Russia, with both sides engaging in a war of words over nuclear testing and modernization. As the situation unfolds, it remains uncertain how each country will proceed with its testing plans and what the implications will be for global security.
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