Key Takeaways

• President Trump has said the United States will resume nuclear testing.
• A government shutdown has furloughed the experts who handle nuclear weapons.
• Russia tested a nuclear-powered cruise missile and teased future tests.
• Restarting nuclear testing could spark a new arms race with Russia and China.

President Trump recently announced that the United States will resume nuclear testing. He argues that America must match its rivals. However, the ongoing government shutdown means key experts are furloughed. As a result, the plan cannot move forward just yet.

Why Nuclear Testing Could Restart

Trump’s call for renewed nuclear testing went out after Russia hinted at its own tests. In simple terms, the president said, “If they test, we’ll test.” He withdrew from a major nuclear treaty in 2019. This move now clears the way for renewed tests.

But here is the twist. The government shutdown has sent home the very people who plan and supervise these tests. Without them, the U.S. cannot safely conduct any nuclear test blasts.

What a Government Shutdown Means for Nuclear Testing

A government shutdown freezes many federal workers at home. In this case, the nuclear labs and military commands lack staff. Those furloughed include scientists, engineers, and safety officers. Thus, the machines and plans can’t move forward.

Moreover, restarting the government would take time. President Trump must first sign a deal to fund the agencies. Then, officials have to return to work. Only after that can the U.S. prepare for any nuclear testing.

The Back-and-Forth Between Trump and Putin

Russia’s leader, Vladimir Putin, has warned of nuclear tests of his own. In fact, Moscow recently showcased a nuclear-powered cruise missile. It also tested a powerful torpedo, though it was not nuclear. Still, Trump appeared to confuse the two. He vowed to return fire with U.S. nuclear tests.

Ian Bremmer, an expert on global politics, pointed out the irony on a news show. He said that both sides want to test, yet neither can start right now. Russia has its own budget and staff issues. Thus, no one can set off any blasts at the moment.

How Nuclear Testing Could Be Delayed by a Shutdown

First, Congress must reopen the government. Then, federal workers can resume their duties. Next, agencies like the Energy Department and the Pentagon need to clear safety checks. Finally, they design a test, set up equipment, and run simulations. All these steps can take months.

Meanwhile, the world watches. Other nations notice that America is stuck without its nuclear experts. Some might try to gain an edge. For example, China could speed up its own missile programs. Yet if the U.S. finally restarts nuclear testing, they will feel compelled to follow.

Why the United States Withdrew from a Treaty

In August 2019, the U.S. pulled out of the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty. This pact banned mid-range missiles in Europe and Asia. The Trump administration said Russia broke the rules first. Since then, both nations have felt free to build and test new weapons.

Therefore, Trump’s announcement feels like the next step. He aims to show strength and deter enemies. Yet critics worry this will spark a dangerous arms race. If the U.S. and Russia trade nuclear tests, stability could vanish.

Impact on Global Security

Renewed nuclear testing carries big risks. First, it can break long-held limits on nuclear weapons. Second, it can raise fears of actual nuclear war. Young soldiers and civilians could suffer if tensions rise too high.

Moreover, safety risks increase with every blast. Even underground tests can cause radiation leaks. These leaks can harm people and wildlife for years. Plus, they can damage local environments.

Finally, global treaties and trust may crumble. If America resumes tests, China and other nations will likely do the same. What began as limited testing could grow into open nuclear competition.

What Happens Next

At this point, no nuclear testing can start. First, Congress must reopen the government. Then, key staff can return to their labs and offices. Next, the teams must plan a safe test. After that, they will rebuild equipment and run checks. Only then can any nuclear tests happen.

In the meantime, both the U.S. and Russia will trade diplomatic notes. Leaders may try to delay or cancel tests. They might return to negotiation tables. Moreover, global pressure from allies could push for a test ban extension.

If nuclear testing resumes, experts warn it could last for years. Each side may want proof of its latest weapons. Over time, these tests can become routine again. That would undo decades of arms control progress.

Can the World Prevent a New Nuclear Race?

Some voices call for renewed treaties and talks. They argue that no nation truly benefits from more nuclear tests. Instead, they suggest modernizing existing weapons under strict rules. This path avoids new blasts but keeps defenses strong.

Therefore, the key lies in diplomacy. If world leaders show restraint, they might renew old agreements. They could also craft new treaties to limit emerging threats. For now, the chance to slow down nuclear testing remains.

How Young People Can Stay Informed

Though the topic feels distant, it shapes the future. Nuclear policy affects global security and budget priorities. It also influences science, as researchers monitor fallout and radiation.

You can stay informed by following reliable news outlets. Look for simple explanations and expert interviews. Ask questions in class or online forums. Moreover, think about how nuclear testing impacts the planet you will inherit.

FAQs

Why did President Trump call for nuclear testing?

He believes other countries began testing, so the U.S. must respond. He aims to show strength and deter threats.

How does a government shutdown affect testing?

Shutdowns furlough the scientists and officers needed for safe nuclear tests. Without them, no tests can happen.

What risks come with nuclear testing?

Tests can leak radiation, harm environments, and spark global arms races. They also erode trust between nations.

Can renewed diplomacy stop new tests?

Yes. Leaders could revive old treaties or create new ones. Strong talks and mutual agreements can limit testing.