Putin and Trump’s Nuclear Tests Signal the Return of a Global Arms Race
Putin and Trump’s nuclear tests have reignited global fears of a new arms race. Russia and the U.S. are testing advanced nuclear weapons, escalating tensions among the world’s major powers. Both countries have started testing their strategic weapons again, drawing attention to intensified great power competition.
Putin and Trump’s Nuclear Tests: A Direct Challenge to Global Peace
President Vladimir Putin has reported Russia’s successful tests of the Poseidon nuclear drone and Burevestnik nuclear-energy missile. These tests show Moscow’s intent to bolster its nuclear deterrent. Putin described each weapon as “unparalleled,” as Russia displays its willingness to withstand increased pressure from the West, especially from the United States.
Putin disclosed that Russia has tested the Poseidon underwater drone that is suitable for carrying a nuclear warhead and is capable of generating radioactive tsunamis. The test proved the “neutron source” activation of Poseidon’s compact nuclear reactor that gives it the ability to operate under water for long periods. According to Putin, no country has ever developed a similar weapon.
What Makes Poseidon Unique
Poseidon integrates drone and torpedo technologies into an effective underwater weapon that functions at extremely high speeds and ranges. It is nearly 20 metres long and weighs approximately 100 tonnes, capable of traveling underwater at speeds just under 200 km/h and at great depths, making interception nearly impossible.
Experts on weapons systems estimate Poseidon can potentially carry a two-megaton nuclear warhead and destroy large portions of coastlines. The development of these underwater weapon technologies is an unprecedented challenge to traditional nuclear strategy – a way of delivering a new type of deterrent in addition to land, air, and sea systems. Moscow sees Poseidon as a way of overcoming NATO’s missile defense networks.
The Burevestnik: The World’s First Nuclear-Powered Cruise Missile
Just before the Poseidon test, Russia tested the Burevestnik – the first nuclear-powered cruise missile in the world. General Valery Gerasimov, called the Burevestnik test a “complete success,” noting that it flew 14,000 kilometers in 15 hours. Russian President Vladimir Putin called the Burevestnik reactor miniature because it activates in minutes, “much faster” than the reactor technology on submarines.
Because the Burevestnik is a nuclear-powered missile system, it can fly for days at a time, strike from unpredictable directions, and evade missile defenses. It can approach the target with stealth and unlimited range, essentially neutralizing any air defense systems within NATO’s Air Forces. This technology represents one of the most profound changes in global nuclear strategy ever.
Russia’s Message to the West
Through these tests, Russia intends to show its technological superiority and toughness. Putin was careful to time it along with Washington’s increasing criticism and sanctions. In addition, he supervised nuclear launch exercises, indicating that Russia’s triad – land-based, sea-based, and air-based nuclear forces – is ready.
After these exercises, Putin announced that Russia was pulling out of a 2000 agreement with the United States to dispose of plutonium. He was explicit on why it was being rescinded – because of NATO expansion and Western sanctions. His message was clear – Moscow will not submit to external pressures.
Trump Directs U.S. Nuclear Tests
Concurrently, President of the United States, Donald Trump, announced he had given the Pentagon instructions to begin nuclear weapons testing. This would be the first nuclear test in America in over 30 years. The President stated that the United States needs to be on par with the nuclear programs of Russia and China.
The post on Truth Social made note that, “Because of the testing programs of other countries, I have ordered the Department of War to begin testing.” The announcement received some political backlash in Washington, where critics of the proposal noted that it could derail decades of non-proliferation efforts.
Arms control experts argued that the U.S. has no military or technical basis to resume testing. They cautioned that this could lead to a new global testing cycle and call into question international treaties.
China’s Growing Nuclear Arsenal
At the same time, China is quickly growing its nuclear capabilities, with reports stating that Beijing is believed to have around 600 nuclear warheads – twice as many as in 2020 – and possibly over 1,000 by 2030.
China’s recent Victory Day parade presented five new long-range nuclear delivery systems capable of striking the continental United States. Beijing’s efforts to expand its arsenal increase strategic pressure on both Washington and Moscow.
The Future After Putin and Trump’s Nuclear Tests
To put it briefly, the United States, Russia, and China are all engaged in the modernization of their nuclear arsenals at the same time. This development signals a potential collapse of the thin arms control structures put in place since the end of the Cold War. The abandonment of treaties and nuclear testing could open the door to a new arms race defined by hostility.
If serious negotiations do not occur soon, the world will surely return to a new era of nuclear brinkmanship, rife with fear, rivalry, and suspicion.
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