Overview
- Speaking to reporters on Air Force One, President Trump said the United States will conduct nuclear tests because other countries test and to verify its weapons, while also saying he favors denuclearization.
- Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the pledge is aimed at verifying the safety of U.S. nuclear weapons.
- Analysts say Trump's phrasing blurs routine missile trials with potential explosive warhead tests, fueling strategic uncertainty over what will actually occur.
- International watchdogs and officials warned that any explosive test would be destabilizing, and the Kremlin said Russia would respond in kind if others resume testing.
- With New START due to expire on February 4, 2026, experts warn the loss of caps and verification heightens risks of miscalculation as U.S. officials discuss potential talks on limits.