Russia–US Nuclear Tension: Putin Orders Preparations for Testing
Nuclear tensions between Russia and the United States have once again reached a critical point. Following US President Donald Trump’s recent remarks and Washington’s latest missile test, Russian President Vladimir Putin has instructed his top security officials to prepare a detailed proposal on the possible resumption of nuclear testing. This development has raised serious concerns over the stability of global arms control frameworks.
Russia’s Firm Stance on Nuclear Testing
Putin stated that Russia has always abided by the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT). However, if the US or any other nuclear power conducts such tests, Russia will respond in kind. He emphasized that the matter is closely linked to Russia’s national security and the global strategic balance.
Activity at the Novaya Zemlya Test Site
According to Russian Defence Minister Andrey Belousov, the United States has been continuously upgrading its nuclear capabilities. In such circumstances, preparations for a “full-scale nuclear test” have become essential for Russia. The country has identified the Novaya Zemlya site in the Arctic region for this purpose, where all testing facilities can be reactivated within a short time if required.
The Latest Move by the United States
Recently, the US carried out a test of its Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile, which political analysts and experts see as a display of nuclear strength. Trump stated that if Russia, China, and Pakistan are conducting nuclear tests, the US must do the same to maintain parity. He also asserted that under current conditions, Washington should not be constrained by agreements like the CTBT.
Review in the Security Council and Strategic Signals
Putin has directed all key security departments — including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Defence, and intelligence agencies — to closely monitor US activities and prepare detailed reports. The next course of action regarding nuclear testing will be based on these assessments. Analysts believe Russia’s response will depend largely on Washington’s moves.
Global Tensions and Historical Context
This situation has cast doubts over the effectiveness of global nuclear arms control frameworks such as the New START Treaty. The US last conducted a nuclear test in 1992, while the Soviet Union (now Russia) carried out its final test in 1990. Since then, both nations have refrained from testing, though they have continued modernising their missile systems.
Conclusion
The renewed escalation between Russia and the United States poses a serious threat to global security. If both superpowers return to nuclear testing, it could undermine the world’s strategic balance and weaken existing arms control agreements.
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