MOSCOW: Russian President Vladimir Putin stated Wednesday that Russia would consider resuming nuclear tests if the United States were to do so, convening a security council meeting in response to comments by US President Donald Trump.
The announcement represents the latest chapter in nuclear tension between the world’s two largest atomic powers, following unsuccessful attempts by Putin and Trump to resolve the Ukraine conflict.
Security Council Prepares for Potential Tests
During the meeting, Putin instructed Russia’s defense and foreign ministries, as well as security agencies, to “gather information on this topic” and prepare “proposals on the possible start of preparation works for nuclear weapons tests.”
Russia has not conducted a nuclear test since 1990, prior to the dissolution of the Soviet Union.
The discussion was prompted by comments from Russian Defence Minister Andrei Belousov, who suggested “begin immediate preparations” for testing in the Arctic archipelago Novaya Zemlya.
Trump’s Nuclear Comments Trigger Response
Last week, Trump stated on social media that he had instructed the Pentagon to ‘start testing our Nuclear Weapons on an equal basis’ with Russia and China. It remains unclear whether he was referring to tests involving actual nuclear warheads.
Putin has previously said that if the US carries out nuclear tests, Moscow would reciprocate.
In October, Russia conducted tests of nuclear-capable weapons excluding atomic warheads, signaling continued military modernization without detonating nuclear devices.
Global Implications
Aside from North Korea, no country has conducted a nuclear explosion in the 21st century. Experts warn that any new nuclear testing by the US or Russia could escalate global tensions and undermine international arms control agreements.
Trump has publicly sought to mediate peace in Ukraine since his return to the White House in January. However, talks with Putin have produced no progress, and the former US president has expressed growing frustration over Russia’s refusal to negotiate a ceasefire.
What’s at Stake
If Russia resumes testing, it would mark a significant departure from decades of restraint and could intensify geopolitical tensions with the United States and other global powers. Analysts caution that the world could enter a renewed nuclear arms competition, reversing the longstanding trend of nuclear non-proliferation.
