
Beijing strongly denies allegations of underground nuclear tests as US President Donald Trump pushes for a return to nuclear arms experimentation.
China has firmly rejected accusations made by United States President Donald Trump that it has been secretly conducting nuclear weapons tests. The allegations came during a recent television interview in which Trump also claimed that Russia, North Korea, and Pakistan were engaged in covert nuclear testing operations. These claims were made as part of Trump’s efforts to justify a potential end to the US moratorium on nuclear weapon detonations.
China Calls for Adherence to Nuclear Test Ban
At a press briefing on Monday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning stated that Beijing has strictly abided by its decades-old commitment to suspend nuclear testing. Mao emphasized China’s role as a responsible nuclear power, highlighting its adherence to the principle of “no first use” of nuclear weapons and a policy focused on self-defense.
“China has always fulfilled its obligations and has not conducted any form of nuclear testing,” Mao said. She further urged the United States to maintain the global moratorium and take active steps to support international nuclear disarmament efforts.
US President Pushes for Renewed Nuclear Testing
President Trump’s remarks have raised global concern, particularly as no country other than North Korea has conducted an acknowledged nuclear test in more than 20 years. The US itself has not carried out a nuclear explosion since 1992, while China and Russia report having ceased such tests in 1996 and 1990, respectively.
In his interview, Trump claimed, without providing evidence, that China and Russia are actively testing nuclear devices. “I don’t want to be the only country that doesn’t test,” he said, expressing a desire to resume US nuclear testing. His remarks were followed by a social media announcement ordering the Department of Defense to “immediately” prepare to revive nuclear trials.
Global Reactions and Confusion Over US Intentions
The abrupt call for resumed nuclear testing has caused confusion in diplomatic and defense circles. US Energy Secretary Chris Wright attempted to clarify the situation, saying the administration may be referring to “system tests” rather than full nuclear detonations. These non-critical tests evaluate the performance of nuclear weapons components without triggering an actual nuclear explosion.
Meanwhile, Russia recently acknowledged testing a new nuclear-powered cruise missile and underwater drone, further heightening international concern about a potential shift in global nuclear policy and the fear of a renewed arms race.
A Call for Stability Amid Rising Tensions
China has responded by urging the United States to avoid actions that could destabilize international security. “We hope the US will take concrete steps to uphold the global nuclear non-proliferation regime,” Mao said, highlighting the importance of maintaining strategic balance.
While Trump’s claims have not been independently verified, they have triggered global anxiety over the future of nuclear disarmament and the potential breakdown of long-standing international agreements designed to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons.
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