CIA Director John Ratcliffe confirmed Russia and China are conducting clandestine nuclear tests, echoing former President Trump’s claim that the U.S. must respond.
CIA Confirms Russia and China Breaking Moratorium
John Ratcliffe posted on X that Russia and China have carried out nuclear tests that violate the existing moratorium, citing fragments from first‑term presidential reports. The tests are described as “supercritical,” exceeding the U.S. standard of “zero‑power.” They are part of the states’ nuclear modernisation programs. A zero‑power test detonates a core yet emits only minimal energy, avoiding a full chain reaction.
Trump Aims to Resume U.S. Nuclear Tests
President Donald Trump announced last week that the Department of Defense must commence U.S. nuclear testing immediately, the first since 1992. He argued it is necessary to maintain balance against other nations that, according to him, are already testing. In “60Minutes” he said the United States cannot remain the only country abstaining from tests.
Experts Clarify Nature of Upcoming Tests
CBS News‑quoted experts said the U.S. tests would likely be subcritical or system tests, not large‑scale explosions. Such tests produce no chain reaction or detectable seismic shock. They could be simulation laboratories aimed at refining weapons without actual detonations.
China Denies Conducting Tests
Chinese MFA spokesperson Mao Ning stated that China always observes the test moratorium and pursues defensive nuclear deterrence. Similar statements are made by Pakistan. U.S. intelligence, however, reports that both powers conduct low‑yield tests that technically do not breach the CTBT but undermine its spirit.
Possible Global Implications
Analysts warn that U.S. resumption of tests could pressure other nations—especially China—to intensify their programs. China has carried out only 47 tests versus the U.S.’s over 1,000. Renewed testing could allow China to catch up technologically and reignite a worldwide nuclear arms race.
