Putin says Russia to conduct nuclear tests if other states do same

By Elena Teslova

MOSCOW (AA) - Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Wednesday that Moscow is prepared to conduct nuclear tests if other countries do so first.

The declaration was made during a meeting of the Russian Security Council, which was called in response to media reports that the US tested nuclear weapons.

Putin directed security officials to analyze the information and, if confirmed, prepare for Russia's own tests.

He referenced a prior position, stating: "Back in 2023, it was stated that if the US or other states participating in the relevant treaty were to conduct such tests, Russia would also need to take appropriate responsive measures accordingly.

"In connection with this, I instruct the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Defense Ministry of the Russian Federation, special services, and related civilian agencies to gather additional information on this issue, analyze it at the Security Council forum, and submit coordinated proposals concerning the possibility of initiating preparations for nuclear weapon testing activities."

This follows an Oct. 31 announcement by US President Donald Trump on his Truth Social platform that he had ordered the Department of Defense to commence immediate nuclear weapons testing.