Analysis: Trump-Xi Summit Must Address Nuclear Arms Amid Rising Tensions

This analysis argues that while the recent summit between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing focused on trade, technology, and regional hotspots, the critical issue of nuclear weapons was largely sidelined. The article emphasizes that nuclear disarmament remains the most existential threat and must be prioritized in future meetings. It highlights US accusations, voiced by Undersecretary Thomas DiNanno, that China is rapidly expanding its nuclear arsenal to reach parity with the US and Russia by 2030. Furthermore, the US alleges China has conducted secret nuclear tests using decoupling methods, a claim Beijing denies. These developments have prompted Trump to consider resuming US nuclear testing, potentially ending the long-standing moratorium. Critics argue China’s public support for disarmament contrasts with its provocative military modernization and refusal to engage in trilateral talks. The piece underscores the collapse of previous arms control frameworks like New START and the urgent need for transparent dialogue to prevent a new nuclear arms race.