Story perspectives

Trump Eyes Nuclear Arsenal Expansion Amid Treaty Expiration

2/11/2026

Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump faces the expiration of the New START treaty, prompting expansion of the U.S. nuclear arsenal and possible resumption of underground nuclear testing.
Senior officials propose reviewing options to deploy additional nuclear weapons and to reactivate submarine missile tubes.
Undersecretary Thomas DiNanno criticized the treaty for limiting U.S. capabilities and claimed China conducted nuclear tests in 2020, urging a new framework to strengthen deterrence.

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Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump faces the expiration of the New START treaty, prompting expansion of the U.S. nuclear arsenal and possible resumption of underground nuclear testing.
Senior officials propose reviewing options to deploy additional nuclear weapons and to reactivate submarine missile tubes.
Undersecretary Thomas DiNanno criticized the treaty for limiting U.S. capabilities and claimed China conducted nuclear tests in 2020, urging a new framework to strengthen deterrence.