Nuclear weapons are back on the training ground. Trump and Vance explain the reasons for the tests
During a meeting with journalists near the White House, Vice President Vance commented on Trump's decision, emphasizing that the president's post on the Truth Social platform “speaks for itself.” Vance noted that “sometimes it's necessary to test the arsenal to make sure it's working properly,” adding that the United States works even with countries with strained relations to limit the spread of nuclear weapons. “The president wants to make sure our arsenal is fully functional.” – said the vice president.
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US nuclear tests. Vance comments
Trump announced his decision just before his meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping, pointing to the actions of other countries as the reason for resuming tests. “Because of the testing programs of other countries, I have directed the War Office to begin testing our nuclear weapons on an equal basis. This process will begin immediately” – he wrote on Truth Social. However, the president did not explain the details of his decision, and when asked by journalists aboard Air Force One, he only stated that “all countries seem to be testing” their weapons.
Trump's decision was announced in the context of reports about Russian tests of nuclear-powered missiles, such as the Burevestnik cruise missile and the Poseidon underwater drone. Although the Russian tests involved missiles and not nuclear warheads, Vice President Vance declined to comment on any possible connection between the U.S. actions and the Russian tests.
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Nuclear tests. North Korea was last
The last known nuclear test took place in 2017 and was conducted by North Korea. In the 21st century, no other country has detonated an atomic bomb. The last test conducted by China took place in 1996, but analysts have been pointing to activity at the Lob-nor nuclear test site for years, which may suggest preparations for new tests. The United States ended tests in 1992 and in 1996 signed the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty. However, the Senate never ratified this document.
Trump posted his entry on Truth Social just before the meeting with Xi Jinping, which may indicate an additional dimension of the decision in the context of international relations.
