US accuses China of ‘massively’ expanding nuclear arsenal amid fears of new arms race
The US has accused China of a rapid and opaque expansion of its nuclear arsenal, potentially possessing enough fissile material for over 1,000 warheads by 2030. This accusation was made at the Conference on Disarmament in Geneva, following the expiration of the New Start treaty between the US and Russia. The US claims the treaty was flawed for not including China and is seeking a new agreement. China denies engaging in a nuclear arms race and insists its arsenal is not comparable to those of the US and Russia. Despite this, the US reports that preparatory talks with China have occurred, with more substantive discussions planned. The US also accuses Russia of violating New Start and aiding China's nuclear expansion.