Trump Orders Nuclear Testing Plans Without Explosions, Says Energy Chief

President Donald Trump has ordered new tests of the United States nuclear weapons system, but according to Energy Secretary Chris Wright, these tests will not involve nuclear explosions. This announcement comes after Trump’s recent social media statements raised questions about the resumption of nuclear testing.

In an interview on Fox News’ “Sunday Briefing,” Wright clarified that the tests planned by the Trump administration are classified as “system tests.” He explained that these are “noncritical explosions” designed to assess the various components of nuclear weapons, ensuring their readiness without conducting actual detonations. Wright emphasized that the intent is to verify the systems that would deliver the nuclear payload rather than to trigger nuclear explosions.

The confusion surrounding Trump’s comments began just before a significant meeting in South Korea with Chinese President Xi Jinping. On his Truth Social platform, Trump suggested he had instructed the Department of War to initiate testing on an “equal basis,” which many interpreted as a potential move to lift a long-standing U.S. prohibition on nuclear testing.

When pressed about the implications of his remarks, Trump was evasive, stating, “You’ll find out very soon,” as he traveled back to Washington. This ambiguity raised concerns, especially given that the U.S. has not conducted explosive nuclear tests since 1992.

The Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty, which the U.S. signed but did not ratify, has been honored by all recognized nuclear states, with North Korea being the notable exception. The treaty aims to prevent nuclear detonations globally, and a return to testing by the U.S. could reignite Cold War-era tensions.

Trump’s announcement followed reports of new nuclear capabilities being tested by Russia, including an atomic-powered underwater drone and a nuclear-powered cruise missile. The Kremlin responded by reaffirming its commitment to a global ban on nuclear testing, warning that should the U.S. resume testing, it would also reevaluate its position.

The U.S. military regularly conducts missile tests that can deliver nuclear warheads, but the situation remains sensitive. The potential resumption of nuclear testing poses significant implications for international relations and global nuclear policy, particularly in the context of rising tensions with both Russia and North Korea.

As developments unfold, the international community will be closely monitoring the U.S. decision-making process regarding its nuclear strategy and the implications for global security.