Russia Threatens to Restart Nuclear Tests If US Takes the First Step
In a chilling escalation, Russia has warned it will resume nuclear testing—but only if the United States goes first. Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov declared Moscow would be forced to “mirror” any US nuclear test, sparking global alarm.
What’s the Deal with the Nuclear Test Ban Treaty?
The 1996 Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) bans all nuclear explosions worldwide. Both Russia and the US signed it, but America’s refusal to ratify means the treaty has never come fully into force.
Just last week, Putin hinted Moscow might ditch its 2000 decision to ratify the treaty altogether. Yet, he stopped short of deciding if Russia will indeed restart testing.
Western Fears Mount Amid Ukraine Conflict
Experts worry Russia’s nuclear test threat is designed to intimidate the West from extending military aid to Ukraine. With the war showing no signs of slowing, tensions are skyrocketing—raising fears of more dangerous moves from Moscow.
The ongoing clash has already destabilised the region, and any return to nuclear tests could push global security to the edge.
