Russia said its recent weapons tests did not involve nuclear warhead detonations. The tests included the Burevestnik cruise missile and Poseidon underwater drone. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov clarified that these tests were not direct nuclear tests. He said the information should not be misinterpreted as a violation of nuclear agreements.
Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump ordered nuclear tests in response to other countries’ testing programs. He instructed the Department of War to test nuclear weapons on an equal basis. However, it remains unclear whether these tests will involve actual warheads or only nuclear-capable delivery systems. The announcement raised concerns over rising nuclear tensions globally.
Read more: Putin tests nuclear-powered Poseidon torpedo
The Kremlin warned that Russia would respond if the United States conducts live nuclear warhead tests. Peskov said that if someone breaks the moratorium, Russia will act accordingly. President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly stated that Russia would follow any U.S. nuclear testing. This shows both nations remain cautious yet ready to protect their strategic interests.
Russia regularly runs drills with weapons capable of carrying nuclear warheads. Putin claimed that these new devices can reach any continent and are hard to defend against. Both countries observe a de facto moratorium on testing nuclear warheads. However, Russia emphasizes that testing nuclear-powered delivery systems does not violate this moratorium.
Read more: Putin directs drills of Russian nuclear forces
Together, Russia and the U.S. hold 90 percent of the world’s nuclear arsenal. According to SIPRI, they control nearly 11,000 warheads. Experts warn that renewed nuclear testing could escalate global tensions and complicate arms control agreements. The situation highlights ongoing strategic rivalry between the two nuclear powers.