The Biden administration may consider deploying additional nuclear weapons in response to growing aggression from China and Russia, according to Pranay Vaddi, the National Security Council’s top arms control official.
Vaddi stated that without a change in the arsenals of these adversaries, there may come a time in the near future where an increase in deployed nuclear weapons is necessary to deter threats and protect the United States and its allies.
This potential shift in policy would mark a departure from longstanding U.S. practices but could be essential in the current era of heightened global competition, Vaddi emphasized during a meeting with the Arms Control Association on June 7.
These remarks come on the heels of a report released by the Congressional Commission on the Strategic Posture of the United States, which recommended expanding and modernizing the country’s nuclear arsenal to counter the rising threats posed by China and Russia.
Madelyn Creedon, a member of the commission, also addressed the need for a robust response to the aggressive actions of China and Russia, highlighting their efforts to enhance their military capabilities and challenge the existing international order.
Currently, the United States adheres to the limits set by the New START treaty with Russia, which allows for 1,550 deployed strategic nuclear warheads. However, with China rapidly expanding its nuclear arsenal and Russia showing signs of non-compliance with the treaty, there is growing pressure to reevaluate U.S. nuclear policies.
While some, like Rep. John Garamendi, advocate for restraint and de-escalation in nuclear arms discussions, others like Vaddi believe that increasing the nuclear footprint may be necessary to maintain deterrence and protect national security interests.
In a world where major powers vie for influence and military supremacy, the debate over nuclear weapons policy remains a critical issue with far-reaching implications for global security and stability.
Reuters contributed to this report.
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