
U.S. President Donald Trump has announced that he has instructed the Pentagon to restart nuclear weapons testing — a move that experts warn could have devastating global consequences. The declaration, made through a brief and ambiguous post on his Truth Social account, has already sparked fears of a new international arms race and the erosion of decades-long nuclear disarmament efforts.
Trump’s announcement comes just before his scheduled meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, an event that was expected to focus on easing geopolitical tensions. Instead, his message referencing both China and Russia has raised concerns that the U.S. is preparing for a return to Cold War–era nuclear brinkmanship. Observers say the timing and tone of the post could worsen already fragile diplomatic relations.
Nuclear experts and peace advocates have condemned the decision, describing it as a reckless provocation that undermines global security. One analyst warned that “by foolishly announcing his intention to resume nuclear testing, Trump will trigger strong public opposition in Nevada, from all U.S. allies, and could spark a chain reaction” of nuclear developments in other countries.
Environmental and humanitarian groups have also spoken out, emphasizing the disastrous consequences of renewed testing for both human health and the environment. They argue that decades of progress under international treaties could be undone overnight, putting millions at risk from radiation exposure and renewed nuclear competition.
As outrage builds across the U.S. and abroad, calls are growing for Congress and global leaders to intervene. Many fear that the move will not only destabilize global security but also reignite tensions between the world’s most powerful nations — pushing humanity closer to the edge of a potential nuclear catastrophe.