Biden's Nuclear Strategy Adjustment Sparks Debate

A new classified nuclear strategic plan approved by President Biden is not targeting any specific country or threat, despite reports of a focus on China. The Arms Control Association noted that U.S. nuclear strategy remains largely unchanged, with the future potentially seeing adjustments based on developments from China and Russia.

The Biden administration's classified nuclear strategic plan, approved this year, does not target any single country or threat, the White House clarified, countering a New York Times report suggesting a shift towards China.

The Arms Control Association reaffirmed that the overall U.S. nuclear weapons strategy remains aligned with the 2022 Nuclear Posture Review, stressing no significant pivot away from Russia towards China. Despite the New York Times' claims, the White House has not announced the revised strategy, titled 'Nuclear Employment Guidance'.

According to senior officials, the strategy, updated every four years, has allowed for cautious discussion on its revisions. The administration's primary aim is to manage nuclear arms restraints with China and Russia, with potential future adjustments if China's arsenal continues to grow or Russia breaches New START limits. Such changes, however, are not expected until after 2030.

(With inputs from agencies.)