In a move that has sent shockwaves through the international community, former US President Donald Trump has declared his intention to resume nuclear weapons testing if he returns to power. The controversial announcement cites nuclear activities by Pakistan and other unspecified countries as the primary justification.
Breaking the Decades-Long Moratorium
During a recent gathering with supporters, Trump revealed his plans to end America's self-imposed nuclear testing moratorium that has been in place since 1992. "We will resume nuclear testing for the first time since 1992," Trump stated emphatically, adding that the United States must maintain its nuclear supremacy.
Pointing Fingers at Global Rivals
The former president specifically called out Pakistan while suggesting other nations are conducting their own nuclear tests. "Pakistan and I hear other countries are doing it," Trump claimed, though he provided no concrete evidence to support these allegations about ongoing nuclear testing activities.
Expert Reactions and Global Concerns
Nuclear nonproliferation experts have expressed alarm at these statements, warning that resuming nuclear testing could trigger a dangerous new arms race. The Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty, though not ratified by the US, has been largely respected by nuclear powers for decades.
International observers note that such a move would likely draw strong condemnation from global partners and adversaries alike, potentially destabilizing current nuclear deterrence frameworks.
Political Implications and Future Scenarios
This announcement comes as Trump campaigns for a potential return to the White House. The statement aligns with his previous administration's approach to nuclear policy, which included withdrawing from several international arms control agreements.
Analysts suggest that following through on this promise would represent a significant escalation in global nuclear tensions and mark a dramatic shift from current US nuclear policy under the Biden administration.
