U.S.–Russia Tensions Escalate as Washington Signals Possible Resumption of Nuclear Testing
15 November 2025 | International Desk
Global concerns over a renewed nuclear arms race intensified on Saturday after Moscow reiterated its strong response to the United States’ renewed openness to restarting nuclear testing. The statements from both sides have revived anxieties about the erosion of long-standing international norms that have kept nuclear detonations on pause for decades.
Trump Again Hints at Restarting U.S. Nuclear Testing
Speaking on Friday, U.S. President Donald Trump once again emphasized that the United States “may soon resume nuclear testing”. According to him, both Russia and China are already expanding their nuclear capabilities, making it necessary for Washington to conduct tests “on an equal basis.”
Trump’s comments come despite earlier assurances from U.S. officials that any upcoming tests would be limited to system evaluations—not explosive nuclear detonations.
Moscow Reasserts Its Warning
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov responded firmly on Thursday, warning that Russia would “respond in kind” if the U.S. proceeds with any form of nuclear testing. Moscow has repeatedly said that it would not break the global moratorium unless Washington does so first.
Putin Orders Strategic Review
President Vladimir Putin has reportedly instructed Russia’s Defence Ministry and Foreign Ministry to closely assess U.S. intentions and prepare concrete proposals for restarting Russian nuclear tests if necessary. The directive underscores Moscow’s readiness to re-enter the testing arena should the U.S. move ahead.
Confusion Over U.S. Testing Plans
Earlier, U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright clarified that any tests ordered by the Trump administration would be non-explosive system tests. However, the ambiguity created by Trump’s latest remarks has reignited uncertainty in diplomatic and security circles. Officials and analysts remain unsure whether the U.S. is considering a more dramatic step that would break the decades-long global testing halt.
Global Concerns Mount
International experts warn that any move by Washington or Moscow to resume nuclear testing could undermine the fragile moratorium that has been informally observed by major nuclear powers for years. There are growing fears that such actions might trigger a fresh arms race, destabilizing global security and encouraging other nations to revisit their dormant nuclear ambitions.
An Intensifying Standoff
With both nations signaling a willingness to mirror the other’s actions, the strategic balance between the U.S. and Russia appears increasingly fragile. As of 15 November 2025, the standoff remains unresolved, raising the stakes for global non-proliferation efforts and adding new urgency to calls for diplomatic engagement.
The world now watches closely, aware that any shift in nuclear testing policy by either superpower could reshape the international security landscape for years to come.
