The United States is set to resume nuclear weapons testing, according to President Donald Trump, who reiterated his directive to the Pentagon. Speaking to journalists, Trump indicated the resumption is imminent, stating, “You’ll find out very soon. But we’re going to do some testing, yeah.” He framed the decision as a necessary measure in the face of activities by other global powers, particularly China and Russia. Trump had previously declared on social media that the U.S. leads in nuclear weapons, with significant enhancements occurring during his presidency.
Historically, the U.S. conducted a vast number of nuclear tests, totaling 1,054 from 1945 to 1992. These tests, largely performed in Nevada, were discontinued due to growing environmental worries and the conclusion of the Cold War. Despite a moratorium, international treaties like the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty have aimed to prevent such tests, although U.S. ratification has not occurred.