US Plans Nuclear Weapons Testing Amid Global Arms Tensions

President Donald Trump has ordered the Pentagon to immediately restart nuclear weapons testing, a move that has sparked significant debate and concern. Supporters, like retired U.S. Army Lt. Col. Tony Shaffer, view this decision as a necessary response to the growing nuclear capabilities of rivals such as China, which is rapidly expanding its arsenal. However, the specifics of the testing remain unclear, with some Republican officials suggesting it may only involve delivery systems rather than explosive tests. Critics, including arms control advocates and scientists, warn that resuming nuclear explosive testing could trigger a dangerous global chain reaction, potentially undermining national and international security, and prompting other nations to follow suit. They also highlight the financial and logistical challenges of restarting tests and emphasize that current scientific consensus sees no necessity for new nuclear detonations. The announcement has already faced opposition from Congress members and experts who fear it could escalate tensions and damage longstanding arms control agreements.