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Senator Kelly Slams Trump’s Nuclear Testing Proposal Amid Risks

11/2/2025

35 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Arizona Democratic Senator Mark Kelly criticized U.S. President Donald Trump’s call to resume nuclear testing.
He said the move could prompt China to expand its nuclear arsenal.
Hegseth, a proponent of the testing, argued it would ensure a credible nuclear deterrent.
Experts warned that resuming tests would damage international norms and spark a new arms race.

History

Historical Context

The 1963 Partial Test Ban Treaty, signed by the U.S., Soviet Union, and U.K., aimed to curb nuclear proliferation by prohibiting atmospheric tests. This treaty followed heightened public concern over nuclear fallout and was a response to the arms race during the Cold War. Despite its intent, the treaty did not stop all nuclear testing, as non-signatories like China continued testing until 1980.

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Story summary

Arizona Democratic Senator Mark Kelly criticized U.S. President Donald Trump’s call to resume nuclear testing.
He said the move could prompt China to expand its nuclear arsenal.
Hegseth, a proponent of the testing, argued it would ensure a credible nuclear deterrent.
Experts warned that resuming tests would damage international norms and spark a new arms race.

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