In a statement that has reignited global concern over nuclear proliferation, former U.S. President Donald Trump has justified plans to restart nuclear weapons testing, arguing that the United States cannot be the only country refraining from such trials while its rivals continue to advance their capabilities.
Speaking at a campaign event, Trump said, “You have to test. We can’t be the only one not testing when others are. That’s how you stay strong.” His comments come amid heightened global tensions and an ongoing arms race between major powers, particularly China and Russia, both of whom have reportedly conducted advanced nuclear simulations and modernisation projects.
The United States has maintained a moratorium on nuclear explosive testing since 1992, though it continues to perform subcritical experiments to ensure the reliability of its warheads. Trump’s remarks, however, suggest a possible shift away from restraint toward active testing – a move that could dismantle decades of arms control efforts and destabilize existing non-proliferation frameworks.
Experts have warned that resuming nuclear testing could trigger a new era of nuclear competition, with other countries using the move to justify their own tests. Critics also argue that restarting tests would undermine U.S. credibility in urging other nations to exercise nuclear restraint.
Global leaders and non-proliferation advocates have called for caution, emphasizing that the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) – though never ratified by the U.S. – remains a cornerstone of international peace efforts. Resuming tests, they argue, would weaken the moral and diplomatic standing of Washington in global disarmament talks.
As the world closely watches America’s next steps, Trump’s remarks have reopened an old but dangerous debate – whether military strength through testing outweighs the risks of nuclear escalation and environmental fallout.
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