The BRICS TimesUS President Trump ordered the resumption of nuclear weapons testing after 33 years. A US Navy Vice Admiral addressed security concerns before a Senate committee.
Trump’s Unexpected Directive
US President Donald Trump ordered the Pentagon to resume nuclear weapons testing. This directive came on Thursday (October 30, 2025). It was just before his meeting with Xi Jinping in South Korea. Trump stated the move was necessary. He did not want the US to fall behind Russia and China. He noted it might take two or three years. However, he now feels it is essential.
Russia’s Recent Poseidon Test
The US last tested nuclear weapons in 1992. China’s last test was in 1996. The former Soviet Union last tested in 1990. A Congressional Research Service report was recently released. It claimed only North Korea has tested nuclear weapons since 1998. Their test happened in 2017. The current issue over nuclear weapons arose recently. This followed Russia’s claim. They stated a successful test of their nuclear-powered underwater torpedo, Poseidon.
Navy Official Faces Senate Queries
Trump has ordered the restart of nuclear weapons tests after a 33-year gap. US Navy Vice Admiral Richard Correll was nominated in early September. He is set to lead the US Strategic Command (STRATCOM). STRATCOM oversees nuclear deterrence and strike capabilities. He answered many questions in the Senate on Thursday.
Questions on Stability and Arms Race
Correll faced questions during a 90-minute session. This was before the Senate Armed Services Committee. Senator Jack Reed, the top Democrat, questioned the decision. He asked, “Will restarting nuclear explosive testing in the U.S. create instability? Will it risk sparking a global arms race?” Correll responded, “If my appointment as STRATCOM commander is confirmed, my role will be to provide military advice on any further discussion regarding testing.” Another Senator asked if missile testing could replace nuclear weapons testing. Correll replied, “I do not have full visibility into the President’s plan.”
Vice President’s Clarification
Vice President J.D. Vance later gave a clarification. He said testing is being done to check weapon functionality. The US and other nuclear powers stopped detonating live warheads long ago.
Putin’s Prior Warning
The Kremlin spokesperson noted President Vladimir Putin’s warning. Putin had cautioned that Moscow would respond in kind. This would happen if any nation restarts nuclear testing. Tara Drozdenko commented on the situation. She is the global security program director at the Union of Concerned Scientists. She said, “There is no sound reason for the U.S. to resume explosive nuclear testing. The U.S. stands to lose a great deal.” Many analysts think Trump is sending a message. He often uses displays of strength as a negotiating tactic. This message is likely aimed at Moscow and Beijing. China has repeatedly rejected US talks on nuclear weapons. China’s Foreign Ministry stated on Thursday its hope. It hopes the US will adhere to its nuclear test ban.
