US Prepares Nuclear Response Amid Russia China Arms Race Concerns

President Donald Trump is actively pursuing a stronger nuclear posture for the U.S. to counter threats from Russia, China, and North Korea, including resuming nuclear weapons testing. During his summit with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung, Trump agreed to discussions on amending their atomic energy agreement to allow South Korea to enrich uranium and reprocess spent nuclear fuel, facilitating the potential acquisition of nuclear-powered submarines. South Korea aims to enhance its autonomous defense capabilities to reduce the U.S. military's burden, while balancing alliance commitments and regional security concerns. Experts suggest South Korea could increase its nuclear latency—the ability to quickly develop nuclear weapons if necessary—through diplomatic negotiations and technological advancements, without overtly violating nonproliferation commitments. Despite U.S. efforts toward denuclearization talks, North Korea remains firm against diplomacy as long as denuclearization is the precondition, complicating Washington's approach. Overall, the evolving nuclear strategies in the region reflect heightened tensions and a recalibration of deterrence to address emerging geopolitical realities.