In a revelation that could reshape global nuclear policy, former President Donald Trump has allegedly instructed the Pentagon to immediately begin preparations for live nuclear weapons testing, according to internal documents obtained by CTV News.
A Dramatic Shift in Nuclear Policy
The directive, if implemented, would mark the first live nuclear test conducted by the United States since 1992, effectively ending a 32-year voluntary moratorium that multiple administrations have honored. This move represents one of the most significant potential changes to American nuclear strategy in decades.
Sources within the defense establishment indicate the request came through informal channels rather than through traditional policy development processes, raising questions about the procedural legitimacy of such a consequential decision.
Global Implications and Reactions
Nuclear nonproliferation experts are expressing deep concern about the potential consequences. "Resuming nuclear testing would be a game-changer in the worst possible way," said Dr. Helen Crawford, a senior fellow at the Global Security Institute. "It would likely trigger similar testing from Russia, China, and other nuclear powers, creating a new arms race at precisely the moment we need more stability."
The Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty, signed by 184 countries though not ratified by the United States, has created an international norm against testing that many fear would collapse if America resumes detonations.
Scientific and Environmental Concerns
Beyond geopolitical implications, environmental groups are sounding alarms about the ecological damage that renewed testing could cause. Previous nuclear tests in Nevada and other sites left lasting contamination that continues to affect local communities.
"We have sophisticated computer modeling that can verify weapon reliability without actual detonations," noted weapons physicist Dr. Michael Chen. "The scientific justification for returning to live testing is weak at best, while the risks are enormous."
What Happens Next?
The Pentagon now faces a critical decision: whether to proceed with planning for tests that could fundamentally alter global security architecture. Defense officials are reportedly divided, with some arguing for modernization and others warning of irreversible consequences.
As the international community watches closely, this development adds another layer of complexity to an already volatile global security landscape, with implications that could extend far beyond American borders.
