Chinese State Media Doubt US Has the Courage for 'No First Use' of Nuclear Weapons

[Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Jeong Hyunjin] The English edition of the Chinese state-run media Global Times has expressed skepticism about the possibility of a change in the U.S. government's nuclear weapons 'no first use' policy.

In an editorial posted online on the 31st of last month, Global Times wrote, "If the Joe Biden administration genuinely declares a no first use of nuclear weapons or adopts a policy that imposes such an obligation on itself, it would undoubtedly be a welcome development," adding, "If that happens, the whole world will praise President Biden."

Global Times continued, "As President Biden continues the 'great power competition' strategy strengthened by the Donald Trump administration, the current relations between major powers are more tense than during the Barack Obama administration," and stated, "It is highly doubtful whether he has the courage to take substantive steps toward limiting the use of nuclear weapons."

Global Times also predicted that the Biden administration is likely to set conditions for the no first use policy of nuclear weapons, demanding requirements from other countries such as China and Russia, which could act as new pressure on China.

Global Times emphasized, "China must also do its part well and strengthen its own nuclear deterrence," adding, "We are the only nuclear power to have declared no first use, and it is especially important to develop a second-strike capability (the ability to retaliate with nuclear weapons even after a nuclear attack from another country)."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.