Nuclear Testing
Trump Orders Immediate U.S. Nuclear Weapons Testing After Russia Missile Launch
President cites Russia’s new missile test and China’s rapid buildup as justification for resuming underground detonations
President Donald Trump announced Wednesday night that he has ordered the United States to resume nuclear weapons testing “immediately,” citing Russia’s recent missile launches and China’s expanding nuclear capabilities as the reasons behind his decision.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump wrote:
“The United States has more Nuclear Weapons than any other country. This was accomplished, including a complete update and renovation of existing weapons, during my First Term in office.”
He continued:
“Because of the tremendous destructive power, I HATED to do it, but had no choice! Russia is second, and China is a distant third, but will be even within 5 years.”
“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 announcement followed Russia’s recent test of a nuclear-powered cruise missile that, according to Moscow, flew 8,700 miles during a fifteen-hour trial. Russian President Vladimir Putin hailed the missile’s success, claiming it can evade modern defense systems.
Earlier this week, Trump rebuked Putin’s show of force, saying the Russian leader should focus on ending the war in Ukraine rather than “testing missiles.” Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, the president warned that the United States is prepared to respond to any escalation.
“I know we have a nuclear submarine, the greatest in the world, right off their shores,” Trump said. “So, I mean, it doesn’t have to go 8,000 miles, and they’re not playing games with us. We’re not playing games with them either.”
When asked about Russia’s long-range missile test, Trump added:
“We test missiles all the time. But, you know, we do have a submarine, a nuclear submarine. We don’t need to go 8,000 miles. And I don’t think it’s an appropriate thing for Putin to be saying either, by the way. You ought to get the war ended. A war that should have taken one week is now in its soon [to be] fourth year. That’s what you ought to do instead of testing missiles.”
Trump hinted at the possibility of new sanctions on Moscow, telling reporters only:
“You’ll find out.”
The president’s order marks a dramatic shift in U.S. nuclear policy, which had largely observed a moratorium on explosive testing since 1992.
Defense officials have not yet released details on where or when the first tests will take place, but the Department of War is reportedly preparing to implement the directive immediately.