New Delhi:
China conducted secret nuclear explosive tests using a sophisticated technique designed to reduce the effectiveness of seismic monitoring systems, according to US Under Secretary of State Thomas G. DiNanno. The US official claimed that one such yield-producing nuclear test took place on June 22, 2020, just days after the deadly Galwan Valley clash between Indian and Chinese troops.
DiNanno alleged that China used a method known as “decoupling”, which dampens seismic signals generated by nuclear explosions, making it harder for global monitoring systems to detect such tests. He said the test involved a yield in the range of hundreds of tons, indicating significant nuclear experimentation.
The timing of the alleged test is particularly sensitive, as it reportedly occurred a week after the Galwan face-off, where 20 Indian soldiers were killed, while intelligence reports suggested over 30 Chinese soldiers also died in the confrontation.
Concerns Over Global Nuclear Security
In a series of posts on social media platform X, DiNanno warned that China’s nuclear activities pose a growing threat to global stability. He stressed the urgent need for a new international nuclear arms control framework that reflects current geopolitical realities rather than outdated Cold War-era agreements.
He criticised the New START treaty, signed in 2010 between the US and Russia, stating that its limits on nuclear warheads and launch systems are no longer relevant in 2026. DiNanno pointed out that while US nuclear forces were heavily constrained by the treaty, China was not covered at all, and Russia’s stockpile was only partially regulated.
“Exactly zero Chinese nuclear weapons were covered by New START,” DiNanno said, adding that China’s rapid nuclear expansion and Russia’s violations of arms control agreements necessitate a new deterrence strategy.
Call for New Arms Control Architecture
The US official argued that a combination of Russian treaty violations, global nuclear stockpile growth, and structural flaws in New START has created an urgent need for a modern arms control architecture. He said the US must strengthen deterrence measures to protect its citizens and allies.
DiNanno’s remarks come amid a US proposal for three-way nuclear arms talks involving China and Russia, following the expiration of New START. However, China has rejected participating in disarmament negotiations at this stage.
Trump’s Earlier Allegations
Former US President Donald Trump had previously hinted at similar accusations in October, suggesting that the US could resume nuclear testing on par with China and Russia. However, he had not provided detailed evidence at the time.
DiNanno’s statements now provide more specific claims, adding fuel to global concerns over renewed nuclear competition and the collapse of arms control regimes.