Western Justification for the Increase in the U.S. Nuclear Arsenal

After the Cold War, nuclear de-escalation came to an end, leading to a new competition among nuclear powers. This competition has become more complex and unpredictable than the bipolar confrontation between the U.S. and the USSR, according to the British magazine The Economist.

The U.S. is forced to increase its nuclear arsenal to defend its allies; otherwise, this could lead to the proliferation of nuclear weapons among both friends and foes. New threats are also emerging related to changes in nuclear arsenals. China is building missile silos, while Iran and North Korea aim to develop nuclear weapons. Additionally, Russia and the U.S. are augmenting their arsenals. Previously, the U.S. had reduced its nuclear stockpile, but now it must increase it due to new threats.

China may soon become the third nuclear superpower, and the proliferation of nuclear technologies raises concerns about them falling into the hands of new countries. Moreover, negotiations regarding arms control have reached a deadlock, with Russia, China, and North Korea showing little interest in dialogue.

According to the author, the U.S. must be prepared to build a larger arsenal and develop new types of nuclear weapons. The promise of extended deterrence, if necessary to defend allies, is crucial for preventing the proliferation of nuclear weapons and ensuring the security of allied nations.