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China dismissed President Donald Trump’s proposal that Beijing join nuclear disarmament talks with the U.S. and Russia, deeming it “neither reasonable nor realistic.” China noted its arsenal is much smaller than those of the other two powers.
During a meeting at the White House with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung, Trump stated he is pursuing denuclearization with Russia and China, pointing out that Beijing’s nuclear weapons lag behind but could catch up in five or six years.
Nuclear weapons pose an existential threat to the world. Conflicts like the one between Russia and Ukraine, and potential conflicts such as the U.S.-China dispute over Taiwan, increase the risk of a nuclear war.
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The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) reports that nearly all nuclear powers are modernizing or expanding their arsenals. China is growing its arsenal faster than any other country, with an estimated 600 warheads, ranking third behind the U.S. and Russia, both of which have over 5,000.
China Maintains Nuclear Forces at Minimum Level
In a press briefing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun responded to Trump’s remarks on denuclearization.
“The nuclear forces of China and the U.S. are not comparable,” Guo said, according to state-run Global Times. “Their nuclear policies and strategic security environments differ entirely. Demanding that China join in trilateral negotiations with the U.S. and Russia is neither reasonable nor realistic.”
Guo stated that China has a no-first-use policy for its nuclear weapons and follows a self-defense strategy, maintaining its forces at a minimum level required for national security.
“China does not engage in an arms race with any country. Our nuclear forces and policies are crucial contributions to world peace,” Guo said.
Trump Calls for End to Nuclear Proliferation
On Monday, Trump announced his pursuit of denuclearization with Russia and China, calling it “very important.” He mentioned discussing the issue with Russian President Vladimir Putin during their recent meeting in Alaska.
“Denuclearization is a big goal. Both Russia and I think China will be willing to do it,” Trump said, noting that nuclear proliferation must be stopped due to its immense power.
Recently, Trump joined Israel in attacking Iran’s nuclear facilities to deter Tehran from developing a nuclear bomb. He stated the U.S. would never allow this to happen.
During his first term, Trump also aimed for denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula, meeting with North Korean President Kim Jong Un after their threats of annihilation. However, Pyongyang has since accelerated its nuclear weapons program.
The U.S. is developing a “Golden Dome” space-based missile defense system to protect against emerging threats like advanced hypersonic weapons.
Updated 8/27/25, 5:50 a.m. ET: This article was updated for clarity and accuracy.
Kevin Frayer/Getty Images
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