Russia Denies Nuclear Test Plans, Puts Ball in Washington’s Court

The Kremlin has firmly stated President Vladimir Putin has not ordered a nuclear test. This declaration was made on Sunday by spokesman Dmitry Peskov. It directly addresses recent statements from the United States.

Russia remains committed to its moratorium on nuclear testing. However, Peskov warned that Moscow would be forced to reciprocate if another nation, specifically the US, conducts a test first.

Conditional Stance on Nuclear Arms Testing

According to Reuters, the Kremlin’s position is one of conditional restraint. Peskov emphasized that nuclear parity is a cornerstone of global security. He stated Russia would only act to maintain this balance.

This creates a tense standoff. The United States recently conducted a test of its Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile. Russia has also tested new strategic weapons like the nuclear-powered Burevestnik cruise missile.

Strategic Weapons Treaty in the Balance

The future of nuclear arms control is uncertain. The New START treaty is set to expire in February 2026. President Putin has proposed a one-year extension of voluntary observed limits.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov confirmed they are awaiting a response from Washington. He described Moscow’s proposal as straightforward and in the global interest. The voluntary nature of the current arrangement leaves room for escalation if diplomacy fails.

The situation highlights the fragile state of global nuclear diplomacy. With the Russia nuclear test stance now clearly defined as reactive, the next move appears to belong to the United States. The world watches as strategic stability hangs in the balance.

Thought you’d like to know

Q1: Has Russia recently tested a nuclear weapon?

No, Russia has not. The Kremlin confirms it is observing a moratorium on nuclear testing. Moscow last conducted a “hot” nuclear test in 1990.

Q2: What did the US President say about nuclear tests?

In a social media post, he stated he instructed the Department of Defense to begin testing nuclear weapons. He cited the need for parity with other nuclear powers as the reason.

Q3: What is the New START treaty?

It is a nuclear arms reduction treaty between the US and Russia. It limits deployed strategic warheads and launchers. The treaty’s future is currently under discussion as its expiration approaches.

Q4: What happens if the US conducts a test?

Russia has stated it will be forced to conduct its own test in response. The Kremlin says this is necessary to maintain nuclear parity and global security balance.

Q5: What new weapons has Russia tested recently?

Russia has tested the Burevestnik cruise missile and the Poseidon underwater drone. Both are nuclear-powered systems with potentially unlimited range, but their tests are not classified as nuclear weapon tests.