At a congressional hearing, Jill Hruby, who leads the U.S. Department of Energy’s Nuclear Security Administration, outlined concerns about Russia updating its START-era delivery systems and strengthening its tactical nuclear forces. The remarks highlighted a pattern she has observed over several years, noting continued efforts to modernize the means by which nuclear weapons could be deployed. Hruby stressed that maintaining a credible deterrent requires ongoing attention to the evolution of delivery platforms and the overall posture of tactical arsenals. [Citation: U.S. Department of Energy/NNSA briefing, congressional testimony]
According to her assessment, Russia is actively pursuing new capabilities for strategic nuclear weapons while simultaneously upgrading its tactical weapons stockpile. This dual track—advancing long-range delivery options and refining shorter-range capabilities—has persisted for a number of years, signaling a persistent modernization program that could influence strategic calculations in North America and beyond. [Citation: Defense analysis briefings]
From the perspective of strategic planning in the United States, there is an emphasis on accelerating modernization efforts for the American nuclear arsenal. The objective is to sustain an up-to-date and credible deterrent that aligns with evolving security challenges. This stance reflects a broader consensus among policymakers and defense leaders that timely modernization is essential to maintaining strategic stability. [Citation: Congressional defense committee remarks]
In comments related to the suspension of Russia’s participation in the START Treaty, former President Joe Biden indicated that he did not view the suspension as a sign of readiness to employ nuclear weapons. He characterized the move as an irresponsible misstep, arguing that it undermines mutual assurances and the risk-reduction framework those agreements aim to uphold. The implication drawn is that sovereign decisions affecting treaty participation should be weighed against long-standing commitments to arms control and international security. [Citation: White House policy briefings]
Addressing the broader question of START suspension, White House leadership expressed confidence in resolving the issue through diplomatic channels. The message conveyed was one of proactive engagement, with an expectation that dialogue and practical steps could restore or preserve a framework for transparency, verification, and risk reduction, thereby supporting strategic stability among major powers. [Citation: White House statements]