UN Warns Catastrophic Risks as US Plans Nuclear Testing Resumption

President Donald Trump has ordered the United States to resume nuclear weapons testing after more than three decades, citing concerns about other countries, particularly China and Russia, conducting their own tests. This announcement has sparked significant international concern, with the United Nations warning of "alarmingly high" nuclear risks and urging restraint to avoid catastrophic escalation. Russian officials have expressed skepticism about U.S. claims, denying recent nuclear tests, while emphasizing that the U.S. decision could destabilize strategic stability. Domestically, the move has drawn sharp criticism from Democrats, including House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, who called it a violation of international treaties, while Republican leaders framed it as a necessary demonstration of strength and deterrence. Experts like Edward Lucas have warned that actual nuclear testing would be highly destabilizing globally. Despite the announcement, some analysts remain uncertain whether the tests will involve actual nuclear detonations or other forms of weapons testing, underscoring the ambiguity and potential risks of this policy shift.