An “expanded nuclear capability” would be enormously expensive, internationally destabilizing, and deeply threatens U.S. national security.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Hazel Correa
hcorrea@armscontrolcenter.org
202.546.0795 x2115
Washington, DC – Today, President-elect Donald Trump tweeted that he would like to “strengthen and expand” U.S. nuclear weapons capabilities. John Tierney, the Executive Director of the Center for Arms Control and Non-Proliferation and a former 18-year Member of Congress, commented:
“It is dangerous for the President-elect to use just 140 characters and announce a major change in U.S. nuclear weapons policy, which is nuanced, complex, and affects every single person on this planet. Since the end of the Cold War, there has been a bipartisan consensus that there should be a reduction in the reliance on nuclear weapons in U.S. defense policy and a decrease in the overall stockpile of nuclear warheads. Calling for an expanded nuclear arsenal shatters that consensus, would likely place the U.S. in violation of a key arms control treaty with Russia, and would almost surely lead to a new nuclear arms race.”
“Building more nuclear weapons or increasing nuclear explosive power sends a message to the rest of the world that nonproliferation is no longer a key goal of the United States. It would also increase the chances of a catastrophic nuclear accident or exchange. The potential consequences of changing U.S. nuclear weapons policy so drastically are simply unimaginable.”
“Current plans already call for spending $1 trillion over the next three decades to modernize and maintain the U.S. nuclear arsenal, which the Pentagon has expressed concern about being able to afford. The President-elect will have to explain why any increase is necessary both financially and strategically.”
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Congressman John Tierney is available for further comment and broadcast bookings by contacting Hazel Correa at 202.546.0795 X 2115 or hcorrea@armscontrolcenter.org
The Center for Arms Control and Non-Proliferation is a national non-partisan, non-profit dedicated to enhancing peace and security through expert policy analysis and thought-provoking research. Since 1980, the Center’s expertise on reducing the threats of war and nuclear weapons has been sought by the media and policymakers – supported by the tax-deductible contributions of foundations and individuals. www.ArmsControlCenter.org.
