Biden aide says America could expand nuclear weapons stockpile

(MENAFN) Amid escalating international tensions, the United States is considering the possibility of strengthening its stockpile of atomic warheads in the coming years, a senior National Security Council (NSC) official revealed.

Pranay Vaddi, senior director of arms control, disarmament and non-proliferation at the NSC, made the revelation during a speech at the annual meeting of the Arms Control Association. Vaddi emphasized the need for the United States to remain vigilant and adequately prepared to respond to evolving threats.

According to Vaddi, the potential expansion of the US nuclear arsenal could become necessary to ensure effective deterrence of adversaries and safeguard the security interests of the American people, as well as those of its allies and partners.

Speculation about increasing US nuclear capabilities comes against the backdrop of the New START treaty, which currently restricts the size of the US nuclear arsenal. With the treaty expiring in 2026 and there being no indication of its renewal, discussions over possible changes to nuclear policy have gained prominence.

While Russia's recent suspension of its participation in the New START treaty has added to the complexity of the nuclear landscape, China's reluctance to engage in negotiations further complicates the situation.

Vaddi's remarks, hinting at a possible expansion of the US nuclear arsenal, sparked discussions in Washington, raising questions about the future trajectory of US nuclear policy in an increasingly unstable geopolitical environment.

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