President Donald Trump has directly accused Pakistan of conducting nuclear weapons tests, a statement made shortly after his administration’s decision to resume U.S. nuclear weapons testing after a 30-year moratorium. Trump cited Pakistan among several nations, including Russia, China, and North Korea, that are actively testing, arguing that this global pattern necessitates the U.S. rejoining such activities. He explained in a television interview that while these countries are testing, the U.S. has been the sole nation to stop. Trump contrasted the lack of public reporting on testing in other countries with the open discussion surrounding U.S. activities. “We’re going to test because they test and others test. And certainly North Korea’s been testing. Pakistan’s been testing,” the President stated unequivocally. This comment directly addressed inquiries about his administration’s intention to “detonate nuclear weapons.” The prior announcement on Thursday confirmed the immediate resumption of U.S. nuclear testing, spurred by Russia’s recent development and testing of advanced nuclear-capable systems, signaling a significant shift in nuclear strategy. Trump elaborated that testing is essential to observe and comprehend the capabilities of these weapons, and that the U.S. cannot be the only country abstaining from tests when others, like Pakistan and North Korea, are actively engaged. Trump also asserted the U.S.’s preeminence in nuclear weaponry, claiming it possesses more nuclear weapons than any other country and has discussed denuclearization with Russian and Chinese leadership. He acknowledged the substantial nuclear arsenals of Russia and China. When questioned about the potential for heightened global volatility due to renewed testing, Trump expressed confidence in the U.S.’s strategic control and preparedness.
