US and Russia Threaten Nuclear Testing Resumption, Sparking Global Alarm

Escalating Tensions Over Nuclear Testing

The United States and Russia have recently signaled a potential return to nuclear weapons testing, a move that has alarmed the international community and threatens to undermine a global norm against such tests that has largely held for decades. These developments come amid already strained relations between the two nuclear powers and raise concerns about a new arms race.

United States' Stance and Subsequent Clarifications

On October 30, 2025, US President Donald Trump stated that the United States would resume nuclear testing 'on an equal basis' with Russia and China, citing 'other countries' testing programs.' He instructed the Pentagon to immediately restart the process for testing nuclear weapons. However, on November 2, 2025, US Energy Secretary Chris Wright clarified that the tests ordered by President Trump would not involve nuclear explosions but rather 'non-critical explosions' or 'system tests.' Despite this, President Trump later reiterated his intent to conduct detonating nuclear weapons tests in an interview on October 31, 2025.

Russia's Conditional Response

In response to the US statements, Russian President Vladimir Putin, on November 5, 2025, ordered officials to submit proposals for a possible resumption of nuclear tests. Putin reaffirmed that Russia would only restart nuclear testing if the United States did so first, emphasizing that Moscow must be prepared for any scenario. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov and Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov echoed this position, indicating that Russia would take 'reciprocal measures' if the US proceeds with nuclear detonations. Russia's nuclear test sites, such as Novaya Zemlya, reportedly remain operational and could be utilized if necessary.

International Implications and Treaty Status

The threats from both nations have been met with significant international concern, with experts warning of a potential new arms race and a severe blow to global non-proliferation efforts. Robert Floyd, Executive Secretary of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO), stated on October 30, 2025, that 'any nuclear weapon test by any state would be harmful and destabilizing for global nonproliferation efforts and for international peace and security.'

The Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT), which prohibits 'any nuclear weapon test explosion or any other nuclear explosion' worldwide, was opened for signature in 1996. However, it has not formally entered into force because nine specific nations, including the United States and Russia, have not ratified it. While the US signed the CTBT, it has not ratified it. Russia ratified the CTBT in 2000 but withdrew its ratification in 2023, stating it was mirroring the US posture.

Historical Context of the Moratorium

The global moratorium on nuclear explosive testing has been a cornerstone of international arms control for decades. The United States has observed a voluntary moratorium on nuclear explosive testing since 1992, following a law passed by Congress. Russia's last nuclear test was conducted in 1991. The Soviet Union had initiated a moratorium in 1990, which was subsequently extended by Russia. This long-standing norm has been crucial in preventing the proliferation of nuclear weapons and maintaining strategic stability.