Trump Orders Nuclear Tests Without Explosions, Energy Secretary Clarifies

President Donald Trump has ordered new tests of the U.S. nuclear weapons system, but these will not involve nuclear explosions, according to Energy Secretary Chris Wright. This clarification comes after Trump made a statement on social media suggesting a shift in U.S. nuclear testing policy. The announcement aligns with ongoing tensions regarding nuclear capabilities, particularly following new developments from Russia.

During an interview on Fox News’ “Sunday Briefing,” Wright explained that the tests will focus on system evaluations rather than explosive detonations. “I think the tests we’re talking about right now are system tests,” he stated. “These are not nuclear explosions. These are what we call noncritical explosions.” The tests aim to ensure that various components of the nuclear weapons system function correctly and maintain the necessary geometry for future nuclear detonations.

The confusion surrounding Trump’s intentions arose just before a significant meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in South Korea. On his Truth Social platform, Trump indicated he had “instructed the Department of War to start testing our Nuclear Weapons on an equal basis,” implying a potential resumption of U.S. nuclear testing, a practice that has not occurred since 1992.

As he returned to Washington, Trump did not clarify whether he intended to restart actual nuclear explosions, which would mark a significant shift in U.S. policy. When questioned by reporters aboard Air Force One about whether he planned to resume underground nuclear tests, he responded, “You’ll find out very soon.”

The U.S. military routinely tests missile systems capable of delivering nuclear warheads, but actual detonations have been on hold since the signing of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty in 1996, which the U.S. signed but never ratified. This treaty has been generally observed by nuclear-capable nations, with the notable exception of North Korea, which has conducted multiple nuclear tests in this century.

Trump’s remarks regarding nuclear testing followed Russia’s announcement of its own advancements in nuclear capabilities, including a new atomic-powered underwater drone. In response, the Kremlin emphasized its commitment to the global ban on nuclear testing, warning that if the U.S. resumes such activities, it would also reconsider its stance. This potential escalation could reignite Cold War-era tensions between the two nations.

The announcement by Trump and the subsequent clarification from Wright highlight the delicate balance of international nuclear policy and the ongoing scrutiny of global nuclear capabilities. As nations monitor these developments, the implications for global security remain significant.