Russia denies preparations for Russian nuclear tests, says only feasibility under review
Russia denies preparations for Russian nuclear tests
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said President Vladimir Putin has not issued orders to begin preparations for Russian nuclear tests, clarifying that the president only requested an expert assessment of whether such tests are necessary.
“The president has issued no instructions to begin preparations,” Peskov stated. “We must first understand whether we need this. It must be well-justified and carefully studied. Our experts are working on it.”
Russia remains committed to nuclear test-ban agreements
Peskov stressed that Putin has repeatedly reaffirmed Russia’s commitment to global agreements banning Russian nuclear tests, adding that Moscow has no intention of violating its international obligations.
He also noted that Russia and China are not conducting nuclear weapons tests, pointing to a continued adherence to current frameworks.
Possible response to U.S. nuclear policy statements
The Kremlin is seeking clarity on recent remarks from U.S. President Donald Trump concerning nuclear testing.
Peskov added:
“If another country violates the nuclear test ban, Russia will have to conduct its own tests to maintain strategic balance.”
Analysts say the comments reflect Moscow’s strategy of conditional deterrence.
Clarifying Burevestnik and Poseidon testing
Responding to media speculation about recent Russian weapons trials—specifically the Burevestnik nuclear-powered cruise missile and the Poseidon nuclear-powered underwater drone—Peskov said these activities do not qualify as Russian nuclear tests.
“A nuclear engine and a nuclear explosion are entirely different matters,” he explained. “Considering Burevestnik and Poseidon as nuclear tests is a superficial and completely incorrect interpretation.”
He described the two systems as globally advanced technologies that other nations are unlikely to match in the near future.
Broader context: debate over Russian nuclear tests
Debate about potential resumption of Russian nuclear tests has intensified following the suspension of several arms-control obligations, including key cooperation mechanisms under the New START framework in 2023–2024.
Satellite analyses suggested preparations at the Novaya Zemlya test site, although no evidence confirms an actual detonation.
Experts argue that Russia’s reassessment of nuclear testing aligns with changing strategic conditions and uncertainty over global non-proliferation agreements.
Despite ongoing speculation, there is no confirmation that Russia intends to resume nuclear tests in the near term.
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