Former U.S. President Donald Trump said Russia and China are testing nuclear weapons, adding that the United States should not be the only nation refraining from such actions. He made the comments during an interview with CBS News’ 60 Minutes program broadcast on Sunday.
“Russia’s testing, and China’s testing, but they don’t talk about it,” Trump told host Norah O’Donnell after she noted that North Korea was believed to be the only country currently testing nuclear weapons.
Trump’s remarks came just three days after he ordered the U.S. military to restart the nuclear testing process, ending a moratorium that lasted more than 30 years.
Calls for Renewed Testing
“Other countries are testing. We’re the only country that doesn’t test,” Trump said. He added, “I don’t want to be the only country that doesn’t test,” emphasizing that it’s not always clear where those tests are taking place.
He argued that testing is essential to verify the functionality of U.S. nuclear weapons. “Doesn’t it sort of make sense? You make nuclear weapons, and then you don’t test. How are you gonna know if they work?” Trump said.
Concerns Over Global Stability
Trump reaffirmed that he does not want to use nuclear weapons but insisted that the U.S. must maintain readiness. He highlighted America’s “tremendous nuclear power,” claiming it surpasses that of Russia and China.
“Russia’s second. China’s a distant third, but they’ll catch up in five years,” Trump said, adding that global denuclearisation should remain a priority.
