NUCLEAR ARSENAL
North Korea fires ballistic missile, Seoul's military says
In a notable military development, North Korea has conducted its first ballistic missile launch in months, with the missile traveling eastward. This provocative action precedes the upcoming APEC leaders' summit in South Korea. President Donald Trump has expressed optimism regarding a potential new meeting with Kim Jong Un.
US furloughs 1,400 nuclear agency staff as shutdown drags on; opens weapons-grade plutonium access to private energy firms
The US nuclear weapons agency furloughed 1,400 employees due to the government shutdown, leaving under 400 on duty to maintain the nuclear arsenal. Simultaneously, the Department of Energy is offering surplus Cold War-era plutonium to private companies for use in advanced nuclear reactors, aiming to boost the US nuclear industry.
North Korea fires multiple missiles ahead of Trump’s South Korea summit, less than a week after Hyunmoo-5 deployment announcement
North Korea fired multiple short-range ballistic missiles on Wednesday, its first such launch in months, just a week before a high-profile Asia-Pacific summit in South Korea. The move comes as South Korea announced mass production of its powerful Hyunmoo-5 missile, aiming to maintain a "balance of terror" with Pyongyang's nuclear arsenal.
Shutdown into fourth week, US nuclear-agency furloughs most staff
In a stark turn of events, America's nuclear weapons agency finds itself in a bind as it furloughs most of its workforce. The decision comes on the heels of a botched congressional vote to resolve the ongoing government shutdown, which has now stretched into record territory.
Putin-Trump Budapest summit may be stalled as Lavrov-Rubio pre-meeting postponed indefinitely, says US broadcaster
A planned meeting between Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has been indefinitely postponed. This comes after a phone call where disagreements on settling the Ukraine conflict were evident. The summit between Presidents Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump, initially set for Budapest, Hungary, now faces uncertainty.
US to furlough 1,400 workers at nuclear weapons agency due to shutdown
About 1,400 workers at the agency managing America's nuclear weapons arsenal will be furloughed. This is due to the ongoing government shutdown. Energy Secretary Chris Wright confirmed the furloughs. The National Nuclear Security Administration is affected. Nearly 400 workers will remain on duty. The modernization of nuclear weapons programs could be impacted.
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South Korea to deploy its most powerful non-nuclear ‘bunker buster’ missile, Hyunmoo-5 that can reach China or Russia to counter North Korean nukes
South Korea is now mass-producing its powerful Hyunmoo-5 missile. This weapon, carrying a heavy warhead, will be deployed by year-end. It aims to balance the terror with North Korea's nuclear weapons. Seoul also plans to take back wartime command from the US by 2030. This move signifies a significant shift in regional security dynamics.
Mass layoffs in US begins: Thousands of nuclear arms workers could be fired from their jobs amid government shutdown, warns top Republican
The National Nuclear Security Administration, responsible for US nuclear weapons, faces significant staff furloughs and layoffs. Carryover funding is running out, potentially impacting 80 percent of employees. Energy Secretary Chris Wright confirmed tens of thousands of critical workers may be let go. Safety and security personnel will remain on duty.
China's expanding nuclear arsenal raises fears of 'Nuclear Blackmail' over Taiwan conflict
Concerns are mounting over China's expanding nuclear weapons stockpile, with analysts indicating that Beijing may resort to nuclear posturing to dissuade Western involvement in the escalating Taiwan situation. This geopolitical chess game could prompt the United States to reevaluate its military commitments in response to a potential invasion of Taiwan.
North Korea displays new long-range missile at military parade celebrating Kim Jong Un's leadership
North Korea showcased its most powerful nuclear weapons, including a new intercontinental ballistic missile, at a military parade marking the Workers' Party anniversary. Leader Kim Jong Un highlighted his growing diplomatic ties and arsenal, with foreign leaders from China, Russia, and Vietnam in attendance.
Putin praises Trump's peace efforts even after failing to win Nobel prize
Russian President Vladimir Putin lauded US President Donald Trump's peace initiatives. Putin expressed optimism about extending the New START nuclear arms treaty for another year. He noted discussions with Trump on resolving the Ukraine conflict. Russia remains open to negotiations for the pact's extension, emphasizing its importance for global deterrence.
China’s Ukraine lesson: What Xi is learning from Putin’s war
China and its People's Liberation Army (PLA) is watching more closely than most, as its friend Russia got itself bogged down in static warfare after its invasion failed to steamroll Ukraine. Kyiv, backed by Europe and the USA, has utilized numerous Western weapons and platforms in defense of its homeland. Obviously, it is of acute interest to the PLA to know what is working and what is not.
Is nuclear-armed North Korea leader Kim Jong Un preparing for war? Inside Pyongyang's big move to bolster arsenal
Nuclear-armed North Korean leader Kim Jong Un announced the deployment of "special assets to major targets" in response to what he called the United States' arms build-up in South Korea, without providing further details.
Trump's 'paper tiger' jab at Russia echoes Mao's propaganda against US
US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin are exchanging "paper tiger" barbs, a phrase originally coined by Mao Zedong to describe the United States. This ironic exchange highlights the term's historical use in Chinese propaganda against perceived Western power. The phrase, meaning seemingly powerful but fragile, has now entered contemporary US political discourse.
Theatre command: How India is looking to integrate Air Force, Navy and Army operations under a new strategy
India is actively progressing towards establishing theatre commands to integrate its armed forces for unified operational control, a major reform that was first highlighted by PM Modi in 2019. This initiative, driven by past coordination gaps, involves significant steps like standardising equipment and training.
Russia is still waiting for Trump's reaction to Putin's nuclear arms control proposal: Report
Russia is awaiting President Trump's reaction to Vladimir Putin's offer to voluntarily maintain limits on deployed strategic nuclear weapons. Putin proposed continuing the New START accord's caps, which expire in February, if the U.S. reciprocates. Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov stated Moscow is still waiting for a response.
North Korea could have up to 2 tonnes of highly enriched uranium: Seoul
North Korea is believed to possess up to two tonnes of highly enriched uranium, South Korea's unification minister said Thursday. But in a rare public confirmation, South Korea's unification minister said that "intelligence agencies estimate Pyongyang's stockpile of highly enriched uranium - more than 90 percent pure - at up to 2,000 kilogrammes."
Iran starts rebuilding missile sites hit by Israel, but experts say a key component is missing
Satellite images reveal Iran's efforts to rebuild missile production sites damaged by Israeli strikes during the recent conflict. The reconstruction highlights Iran's determination to maintain its missile program as a key deterrent, especially with potential UN sanctions looming. Acquiring planetary mixers, crucial for solid-fuel production, remains a priority, potentially through assistance from China.
South Korea leader at UN vows to end 'vicious cycle' with North
South Korea's new President Lee Jae-myung addressed the United Nations, pledging to de-escalate tensions with North Korea by halting hostile acts and respecting its political system. He emphasized peaceful coexistence and contrasted his approach with his predecessor's hard-line stance. Despite Lee's outreach, North Korea remains hesitant, maintaining its nuclear ambitions and expressing a preference for dialogue with Donald Trump.
Putin offers Trump one-year extension to nuclear weapons treaty
President Vladimir Putin announced Russia's readiness to extend the New START treaty by one year, aiming to maintain global nuclear non-proliferation. This proposal hinges on reciprocal action from U.S. President Donald Trump, ensuring the existing balance of deterrence capabilities remains intact. The treaty, limiting strategic nuclear warheads, is set to expire in February 2026.
What is Putin proposing to Trump on nuclear weapons?
Russia has proposed to the United States a one-year extension of the New START treaty, the last remaining nuclear arms agreement between the two nations. This proposal aims to prevent a further strategic arms race and maintain predictability, contingent on U.S. agreement. While Trump has expressed interest in maintaining the treaty's limits, potential barriers include U.S.
Trident II D5 submarine-launched nuclear ballistic missile test fired in the Atlantic; but who pulled the trigger - US or UK?
Only two navies - the US and the UK, have the UGM-133 Trident II D5 Submarine-Launched Ballistic Missile in their arsenal. While US Navy's Ohio-class submarines carry the Trident, UK Royal Navy's Vanguard-class boats have the same nuclear missile in their arsenal. But none of the two navies have till now issued any statement on the test firing.
What is so special about Bagram Air base that Trump badly wants from Afghanistan? 10 points you don't know
Bagram Air Base holds significant strategic importance in Central Asia, which is why President Donald Trump has expressed a strong desire to reclaim it from the Taliban. Bagram is located at a strategic crossroads connecting South Asia, Central Asia, and West Asia, making it a vital gateway for power projection and intelligence activities in a sensitive region. The base is approximately an hour away from China's nuclear weapons production facilities in the Xinjiang region. Bagram serves as a surveillance hub not only against China but also against Russian and Iranian influences in Central Asia.
Pakistan-Saudi Arabia defence pact: Nuclear programme to be available to Riyadh
Pakistan's defense minister stated that its nuclear program could be accessible to Saudi Arabia under their new defense pact, marking a significant development in their military ties. This agreement, where an attack on one is considered an attack on both, is viewed by analysts as a signal to Israel, amid rising regional tensions following a recent attack in Qatar.
Iran tests missiles near Tehran amid nuclear tensions, here’s everything we know
Iran tested missiles near its capital, Tehran, showing strength amid rising nuclear tensions. Videos and photos from residents and social media showed bright trails in the night sky. The launches follow earlier U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran’s nuclear sites. The world is watching closely as Iran continues developing its missile and nuclear programs.
Pakistan says its nuclear program can be made available to Saudi Arabia under defense pact
Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Asif confirmed that under a new defense pact, Islamabad’s nuclear capabilities could be extended to Saudi Arabia if needed. The deal declares an attack on one as an attack on both. The move follows regional tensions after Israel’s strikes in Qatar, raising Gulf security concerns.
Saudi pact puts Pakistan's nuclear umbrella into West Asia security picture
Saudi Arabia and Pakistan have signed a defence agreement. This pact links Saudi money with Pakistan's military. It raises concerns for Israel, India and Iran. Riyadh may get a nuclear shield. Pakistan says the agreement is for defence only.
Trump’s big strategic move to counter China: US working to reclaim Bagram Airbase from Taliban; big strategic play against China’s nuclear sites and Belt and Road
During a joint news conference with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Trump said the US is trying to reclaim the Bagram Air Base from the Taliban. Trump cited strategic importance, including its proximity to “where China makes its nuclear weapons.” He criticized the Biden administration’s 2021 withdrawal, calling it a “total disaster,” and said Bagram was given away “for nothing.”
Russia shows off conventional and nuclear military might in drills, raises tensions with NATO
Russia's military exercises near NATO borders raise concerns. These drills include nuclear-capable weapons. Poland reports drone incursions, calling it a provocation. NATO boosts air defenses. Vladimir Putin revises nuclear doctrine. This lowers the threshold for nuclear weapon use. Belarus hosts Russian tactical nuclear weapons. This creates a 'balcony looming over the West'. The situation echoes Cold War tensions.
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