On Thursday, U.S. Vice President Jay D. Vance expressed that testing the American nuclear arsenal is essential to ensure its proper functionality, though he did not specify the nature of the tests authorized by former President Donald Trump.
Vance stated to reporters at the White House, “We certainly have a significant arsenal. The Russians possess a large nuclear stockpile. The Chinese also maintain substantial nuclear capabilities. Occasionally, we need to conduct tests to confirm that it operates correctly.”
He further added, “Let’s be clear, we know it functions properly, but we need to oversee its effectiveness over time.”
On that same day, Trump announced that he had ordered the resumption of nuclear weapon testing, which had been halted for over three decades. This follows Russian President Vladimir Putin’s announcement that Moscow successfully conducted tests of an underwater drone capable of carrying nuclear warheads and a nuclear-powered cruise missile.
This announcement raised global concerns, especially since Trump did not clarify the specifics of the tests he authorized.
Farhan Haq, Deputy Spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General, remarked that the Secretary-General has repeatedly highlighted the exceedingly high nuclear risks, which are alarming. He emphasized the necessity to avoid any actions that could lead to miscalculations or escalations with severe consequences, stating that nuclear tests must not be allowed under any circumstances.
However, the U.S. Vice President affirmed that “the President’s statement speaks for itself.”