Story perspectives

US Claims China Conducted Secret Nuclear Tests; China Denies

2/12/2026

Center

US Accuses China

The United States accuses China of secret nuclear tests, including one on June 22, 2020, and suggests more high-yield tests.
China denies the accusation, calling it a fabrication to justify a U.S. return to nuclear testing.
The Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization reports no evidence and questions the erosion of global testing norms.
Russia pledges to follow the expired New START limits if the United States complies, amid arms race fears.

Right

U.S.-Russia Arms Negotiations

The New START Treaty expired February 5, 2026, signaling a shift in U.S.-Russia arms control, with Russia pledging to adhere to limits if the United States does.
Discussions in Abu Dhabi indicate negotiations for a U.S.-Russia arms agreement.
Analysts warn the Taiwan-U.S. trade deal could undermine Taiwan's autonomy and hollow its industries.
The deal involves significant investments and raises concerns about Taiwan's long-term industrial viability.

History

Historical Context

The Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) was opened for signature on September 24, 1996, aiming to ban all nuclear explosions. Despite over 170 signatories, including the U.S. and China, key states have not ratified it. Recent U.S. accusations against China of secret nuclear tests highlight ongoing tensions reminiscent of the Cold War, raising concerns about nuclear proliferation and the need for renewed arms control efforts.

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US Accuses China

The United States accuses China of secret nuclear tests, including one on June 22, 2020, and suggests more high-yield tests.
China denies the accusation, calling it a fabrication to justify a U.S. return to nuclear testing.
The Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization reports no evidence and questions the erosion of global testing norms.
Russia pledges to follow the expired New START limits if the United States complies, amid arms race fears.

1 / 3