After New START: America Weighs a New Nuclear Strategy

"Militarily, the expiration [last Thursday] of New START [2010 Treaty with Russia] enables the United States to take parallel steps. We will complete our ongoing nuclear modernization programs that were initiated while New START entered into force. The United States also retains non-deployed nuclear capacity [some 1,900 stored nuclear warheads and bombs] that can be used to address the emerging security environment, if directed by the President. Such actions include expanding current forces, diversifying our capabilities, developing and fielding new theater-range nuclear forces, and adapting our extended deterrence posture as necessary."

"Rather than extend 'NEW START' (A badly negotiated deal by the United States that, aside from everything else, is being grossly violated), we should have our Nuclear Experts work on a new, improved, and modernized Treaty that can last long into the future. Thank you for your attention to this matter! PRESIDENT DONALD J. TRUMP"

New START has expired, enabling the United States to take parallel steps while completing nuclear modernization programs initiated under the treaty. The United States retains roughly 1,900 non‑deployed nuclear warheads and bombs available if directed by the President. Potential measures include expanding forces, diversifying capabilities, developing and fielding new theater‑range nuclear forces, and adapting extended deterrence posture. President Trump proposed negotiating a new, modernized treaty and urged inclusion of China and Russia. China has refused to discuss its nuclear programs so far. Former U.S. nuclear and arms-control experts testified before the Senate Armed Services Committee on the post‑New START environment.

Read at The Cipher Brief