Joe Biden Updates Nuclear Strategy, No Imminent Nuclear War Orders Issued
The Claim
Biden ordered U.S. forces to prepare for possible nuclear confrontations with Russia, China, and North Korea.
News posted on
Emerging story
Recently, social media users have been circulating claims that Joe Biden instructed U.S. forces to prepare for a potential nuclear war with Russia, China, and North Korea.
![Biden ordered U.S. forces to prepare for possible nuclear confrontations with Russia, China, and North Korea.](https://images-prod.misbar.com/form/89792dcc7d2e7e82c865195b39120ccc4619aa6c.jpg)
Misbar’s Analysis
Misbar investigated the claim and found it to be a commotion.
Misbar's team found that the latest news had been misunderstood.
New York Times' Article Misinterpreted
The article mentioned that the United States is considering increasing its nuclear arsenal, reversing decades of cutbacks due to concerns about China and Russia. This transition, driven by fears of China's rapid nuclear expansion and Russia's confrontational rhetoric, suggests a shift from merely updating to actively growing its nuclear weapons.
While the Biden administration continues to embrace the vision of a nuclear-free world, it recognizes that new arms control agreements are becoming less likely. The United States hopes to compel China and Russia into negotiations by demonstrating its willingness to increase nuclear capabilities if necessary.
![the United States is considering increasing its nuclear arsenal, reversing decades of cutbacks due to concerns about China and Russia.](https://images-prod.misbar.com/form/1d848bd534a6189e8ff19c96c597bf9005f663a3.jpg)
According to the newspaper, two senior administration officials were permitted to mention the plan adjustment during recent remarks. It stated that the approach is modified every four years or so.
Four-Year Nuclear Strategy
“A classified nuclear strategic plan approved by President Joe Biden this year is not a response to a single country or threat,” the White House told Reuters after The New York Times reported that the United States had refocused its deterrence strategy for the first time on China’s nuclear arsenal growth.
White House spokesperson Sean Savett declared: “This administration, like the four administrations before it, issued a Nuclear Posture Review and Nuclear Weapons Employment Planning Guidance.”
Acting Assistant Secretary of Defense Mara Karlin recently spoke about the new U.S. nuclear posture, which reflects the present strategic environment. She said: “The President recently issued updated guidance on U.S. nuclear posture, reflecting the evolving strategic environment and the increasing capabilities of our adversaries.” As she noted, “We are facing a period of heightened nuclear threat, with significant developments in China’s and Russia’s nuclear arsenals.”
![Four-Year Nuclear Strategy](https://images-prod.misbar.com/form/bab71e864dad6c6406727811a20a93a721de7ae2.jpg)
Russia and China Nuclear Threats
Karlin stressed that China’s growing nuclear arsenal and Russia’s confrontational stance necessitate a strong and adaptable U.S. approach. “The growth of the People’s Republic of China’s nuclear arsenal, combined with Russia’s aggressive nuclear posture, underscores the need for a robust and adaptive U.S. nuclear strategy.” She emphasized the necessity of alliance building, saying, “Strengthening our alliances and partnerships is critical to effectively addressing the nuclear challenges of today and tomorrow.”
The new posture is intended to enhance U.S. capabilities and ensure effective deterrence in coordination with global partners. “Our strategy involves not just modernizing our own capabilities but also ensuring that we work closely with allies to maintain a credible and effective deterrent.”
Daryl Kimball, executive director of the Arms Control Association, told Reuters that while U.S. intelligence estimates suggest China may increase its nuclear arsenal from 500 to 1,000 warheads by 2030, Russia currently has about 4,000 nuclear warheads and remains the major driver behind U.S. nuclear strategy.
Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the United States has been meticulously preparing for the potential of a Russian nuclear assault on Ukraine.
![Russia and China Nuclear Threats](https://images-prod.misbar.com/form/90d82048d3030ac70c4ee9380b04da3e44032129.jpg)
The Biden administration was specifically concerned that Russia might use a tactical or battlefield nuclear weapon, two senior administration officials told CNN.
The United States is working closely with NATO partners and evaluating strategic defenses. This increased level of alert demonstrates the seriousness with which the United States views Russia’s nuclear threats.
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