Global Nuclear Testing Pause Reaches Record Length Amid Rising Tensions

The world has achieved a significant milestone, marking over eight years without a nuclear test, the longest period since the nuclear age began in 1945. This achievement follows North Korea's last test on September 3, 2017, and highlights a fragile peace as threats from the U.S. and Russia to resume testing loom. Experts warn that renewed testing could escalate global tensions, especially with the New Strategic Arms Limitation Treaty (START) set to expire on February 5, which could lead to an increase in nuclear arsenals. The situation remains precarious as both nations possess the majority of the world’s nuclear weapons, raising concerns about potential miscalculations and instability.

Key Details: • Longest period without nuclear tests: 8 years, 4 months, and 11 days as of now. • Last nuclear test conducted by North Korea on September 3, 2017. • U.S. and Russia account for 90% of the world's nuclear weapons. • New START treaty expiration date: February 5, 2024. • Potential for the U.S. to increase its nuclear arsenal significantly within weeks after the treaty lapses.