Overview
- President Trump reiterated that the United States will “do nuclear testing” on an “equal basis” with Russia and China, while Secretary of State Marco Rubio cast the move as aimed at verifying weapon safety.
- Arms‑control authorities, including CTBTO chief Robert Floyd, warned that any explosive test would be harmful to non‑proliferation and international security.
- The Kremlin cautioned that a U.S. detonation would end the testing moratorium, with officials saying Russia would respond in kind if others proceed.
- New satellite analysis points to significant construction at China’s Lop Nur site, including new tunnels and vertical shafts consistent with preparations for potential underground experiments.
- Allied anxiety is rising, with reporting that Japan’s prime minister has questioned parts of Tokyo’s non‑nuclear stance as the New START treaty’s February 2026 expiration approaches.