Main Idea
The global system for controlling nuclear weapons is under pressure, especially after President Donald Trump's actions. These decisions might affect how countries trust each other about not using nuclear weapons and could change the rules that kept nuclear wars from happening for the last 80 years.
Key Points
The total number of nuclear weapons worldwide is much lower than it was during the Cold War, but the biggest nuclear powers (U.S., Russia, China, France, the U.K.) still keep them as a part of their security systems.Trump announced that the U.S. will start developing newer types of nuclear weapons, and he encouraged other countries like Russia and China to do the same.This decision could lead to a new competition where countries race to make more advanced nuclear arms, making the world less safe.Nuclear Tests and TreatiesThere used to be international agreements against testing nuclear bombs (like the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty, CTBT), but now there is doubt about whether these treaties will continue to work since not all nuclear countries have signed them.Trump’s announcement challenges the idea that testing is no longer needed, which could push other countries to resume tests and build new weapons.
New Dangers
Modern nuclear weapons are smaller and more advanced, which could make leaders more willing to use them in a conflict.The development of new technologies like hypersonic missiles means countries can strike faster and might be harder to defend against.The FutureArms control treaties between the U.S. and Russia (like New START) that limit nuclear weapons are at risk, with agreements expiring soon and few signs of new ones being made.
Conclusion
The article ends by warning that if the world doesn’t work together to set new rules and rebuild trust, there is a real danger that nuclear weapons could be used again someday.Overall, the author believes Donald Trump’s actions could lead to more nuclear competition and less safety for everyone unless countries find ways to cooperate and control these powerful weapons.
Source the hindu