Trump Discusses Nuclear De-escalation Amidst Global Tensions
President Donald Trump suggested that Russia, China, and Iran might be engaging in discussions about nuclear de-escalation amidst ongoing global tensions.
In a recent meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte in the Oval Office, President Donald Trump addressed the upcoming nuclear summit in Beijing, which will include representatives from Iran, Russia, and China. Trump speculated that these nations might be discussing not only nuclear issues but also the broader topic of de-escalation. “Well, maybe they’re going to talk about non-nuclear problems. Maybe they’re going to be talking about the de-escalation of nuclear weapons,” Trump remarked to reporters.
The president reflected on his past interactions with Russian President Vladimir Putin, suggesting that had he won the 2016 election, further progress on Russian denuclearization might have been possible. “I think I would have made a deal with Putin on de-escalation, denuclearization,” Trump stated, emphasizing the devastating power of nuclear weapons.
Trump also expressed concerns about China’s rapid development of its nuclear arsenal, claiming that China could catch up to the U.S. in just five years—a timeline that many experts consider an exaggeration. According to recent reports, China currently possesses around 600 nuclear weapons, significantly fewer than the U.S. and Russia, which hold 5,225 and 5,580 nuclear weapons, respectively.
The president also touched on North Korea’s nuclear capabilities, noting the country’s estimated 50 nuclear weapons. Trump highlighted his positive relationship with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and hinted at the possibility of future nuclear negotiations. “I have a great relationship with Kim Jong Un, and we’ll see what happens,” he said, acknowledging North Korea’s status as a nuclear power.
As global tensions continue to escalate, the potential for discussions on nuclear de-escalation among major powers remains a critical issue, with Trump expressing hope for a reduction in nuclear arsenals worldwide.