Trump says the US will begin nuclear weapons testing

US President Trump stated that he has instructed the Department of Defense to initiate nuclear weapons testing procedures “on an equal footing with other major powers,” but it remains unclear what type of tests the directive refers to, including nuclear warheads themselves or delivery systems such as missiles. Trump posted on social media that the US would immediately begin the relevant procedures due to other countries conducting related tests. In an interview with reporters en route back to the US, Trump stated that the government would release more detailed information in due course. He said, “It involves other countries, they all seem to be doing nuclear-related tests,” but did not name any countries. Regarding whether he believes the global nuclear environment risk has increased, Trump stated that he does not, while reiterating his desire to “see nuclear disarmament.” It is reported that the US has not conducted a nuclear explosion test since 1992 and has maintained a long-standing tacit understanding with some countries to halt underground nuclear testing. Recently, Russia announced the testing of a new nuclear-powered cruise missile and related equipment, seen as one of the factors contributing to the pressure from the US. In his post, Trump stated that the US nuclear force is superior in size and claimed that he completed a nuclear force upgrade during his term. He stated that this was “undesirable because of its immense destructive potential, but there was no other choice.” The United States currently relies on high-performance simulation systems and small-scale experiments to maintain the effectiveness of its nuclear deterrent, and relevant departments believe there is no need to restart nuclear tests. Analysts suggest that resuming testing could actually benefit competitors who are still developing new weapons.