Russian President Vladimir Putin has directed government officials to prepare proposals for the potential resumption of nuclear weapons testing. This move comes in response to statements made by U.S. President Donald Trump, who indicated last week that the United States might restart its own nuclear tests.
During a meeting with his Security Council on October 30, 2023, Putin reiterated that Russia would only resume nuclear testing if the United States takes similar actions. He instructed the defense and foreign ministries, along with other agencies, to assess U.S. intentions and develop plans for resuming tests.
Trump’s comments suggested a willingness to conduct nuclear tests on an “equal basis” with Russia and China, raising alarms in Moscow. While U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright clarified that any new tests ordered by Trump would not involve nuclear explosions, the implications of the remarks have prompted a significant response from Russian officials.
In recent weeks, Putin has showcased advancements in Russia’s nuclear capabilities, including successful tests of a nuclear-powered cruise missile and an underwater drone. These developments serve as a message to Washington, underscoring Russia’s commitment to its defense posture amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions.
The last time the U.S. conducted nuclear tests was in 1992, and since then, the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty has been largely respected, with North Korea being the notable exception. Russia formally withdrew its ratification of the treaty in 2023, asserting the need to align its capabilities with those of the United States.
During the Security Council meeting, Defense Minister Andrei Belousov briefed Putin on U.S. efforts to modernize its nuclear arsenal. He argued that any potential resumption of nuclear tests by the U.S. would significantly heighten military threats to Russia. Belousov proposed that Russia should prepare for nuclear testing at the Arctic Novaya Zemlya archipelago, the site of the last Soviet nuclear test in 1990.
General Valery Gerasimov, Chief of the General Staff, supported the urgency of initiating preparations for nuclear tests. He warned that failing to act promptly could result in missed opportunities for effective responses to U.S. actions, as preparations for nuclear tests can take several months to years.
After receiving insights from military leaders, Putin ordered a comprehensive analysis of the situation. He emphasized the need for government agencies to gather more information regarding U.S. intentions and submit coordinated proposals concerning the possibility of resuming nuclear tests.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov clarified that Putin’s directive does not initiate preparations for nuclear tests but seeks to evaluate the necessity of such actions. Peskov stated that understanding U.S. intentions is crucial before making further decisions.
In a subsequent statement, Dmitry Medvedev, Deputy Chairman of the Security Council, remarked on the seriousness of Trump’s comments. He expressed uncertainty about the U.S. President’s intent but acknowledged the significant implications of such statements. Medvedev concluded that Russia must seriously consider the possibility of conducting full-scale nuclear tests in light of Trump’s remarks.
As discussions continue within the Kremlin, the geopolitical landscape remains tense, with both nations poised at a critical juncture regarding nuclear capabilities.
