Former President Donald Trump recently claimed he instructed the Defense Department to restart nuclear weapons testing—a move that could drastically shift global security dynamics. In an interview, Trump said he wanted to ensure the U.S. nuclear arsenal was “in tip-top shape,” igniting debate among analysts and non-proliferation advocates.
Trump’s Nuclear Testing Claim: Fact or Bluster?
Trump stated, “I told them, ‘Let’s get ready to test,’” but provided no confirmation that actual tests occurred. The U.S. has not conducted live nuclear explosive tests since 1992, though it never ratified the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT).
No public evidence confirms the Pentagon executed such tests under Trump. However, reports in 2020 revealed discussions within his administration about resuming testing to pressure Russia and China into arms control talks.
Why Resuming Nuclear Tests Would Be a Game-Changer
The U.S. last tested a nuclear weapon in 1992 (Divider). Since then, it has relied on computer simulations and subcritical tests (non-explosive). If testing resumed:
- Global Arms Control Could Collapse – The CTBT, signed by 185 nations, discourages nuclear testing. A U.S. reversal might push Russia and China to test.
- A New Arms Race Could Begin – Both nations have modernized their arsenals; renewed U.S. tests could trigger rapid escalation.
- Environmental and Health Risks – Historic test sites (e.g., Nevada, Marshall Islands) still suffer radiation effects.
Was Trump Serious, or Just Talking?
Experts remain split:
- Rhetoric? Trump often made bold, unverified claims about military actions.
- Real Policy? In 2020, officials debated testing but faced opposition from arms control advocates and military leaders.
The Pentagon has never confirmed such an order, and no tests were reported under Trump. Still, the idea alone could destabilize global security.
How the World Reacted—and What Comes Next
Trump’s remarks arrive amid rising nuclear tensions:
- Russia suspended participation in New START, the last major U.S.-Russia arms pact.
- China is expanding its nuclear capabilities.
Dr. Ananya Roy (IDSA nuclear analyst) warns: “Even discussing testing signals U.S. unpredictability, encouraging others to abandon restraint.”
If Trump wins in 2024, his stance on testing may resurface. Meanwhile, the Biden administration upholds the testing moratorium, prioritizing diplomacy.
