The nuclear threat is as real and dangerous today as it was at the end of World War II, when the bombings of Hiroshima and Naga killed thousands. The atomic weapons have the power to destroy the environment, disrupt weather patterns, and collapse critical infrastructure. Nuclear deterrence—including mutually assured destruction —aims to prevent nuclear war through the threat of unacceptable damage and the risk of escalation.
Implicit or explicit nuclear threats have been the default position for countries with nuclear weapons for decades. Such threats are the essence of deterrence: if you attack us, we will respond with nuclear weapons that would destroy your society and military assets.
Although direct nuclear attacks are unlikely, there is always the risk of accidents or miscalculation. The risk is increased when there are rising military tensions and a state or region’s armed forces are in close proximity to the territory of another nuclear-armed country.
The United States should reduce its arsenal to make the risk of nuclear war lower and avoid triggering a Russian arms race. This means eliminating some types of nuclear weapons, refurbishing existing weapons where necessary without enhancing capabilities, and making any needed replacements without enhancing capability. It is also important for all countries, regardless of their political orientation, to agree to control any fissile material under strict safeguards. This includes the use of civilian facilities such as uranium enrichment plants. These steps will help reduce the risk of nuclear terrorism, which is a real threat in all parts of the world.
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