Biden redefines the U.S. nuclear strategy in light of the rise of China and Russia.

In a context of growing geopolitical tension, U.S. President Joe Biden has made significant decisions regarding the country's nuclear policy. According to a recent report by The New York Times, Biden approved a highly classified strategic plan in March that departs from traditional nuclear policies, focusing on the expansion of China's nuclear arsenal. This reorientation marks a turning point in how the United States addresses nuclear security challenges. The new strategy, which is updated every four years, is so classified that only a limited number of printed copies have been distributed to key national security officials and Pentagon commanders. This measure reflects the seriousness with which the Biden administration is treating a threat that once seemed distant. However, the growing nuclear arsenal of China and its military collaboration with Russia have pushed Washington to rethink its priorities. The strategic document examines the readiness of the United States to face nuclear crises, as well as the possibility that adversaries like China, Russia, and North Korea could coordinate their nuclear capabilities. This eventuality, which was previously considered unlikely, is now a central concern, especially in light of the recent war in Ukraine, where interactions between these countries have been observed in terms of military and strategic support. In addition to the threat posed by China's nuclear arsenal, the Pentagon report indicates that China could have up to 1,000 nuclear warheads by 2030, a considerable increase that exceeds previous expectations. This acceleration in military modernization occurs against a backdrop in which Chinese leadership, under Xi Jinping, seeks to match or even surpass the arsenals of the U.S. and Russia. On another front, Secretary of State Antony Blinken has also been in the international spotlight by stating that he will do "everything possible" to get Hamas to accept a ceasefire proposal with Israel. This statement comes amid a conflict that has raised humanitarian and political concerns globally and underscores the Biden administration's commitment to engaging in peace processes in conflict areas. As Biden faces challenges on multiple fronts, the nuclear strategic document could become an important topic of discussion in Congress before his term ends. The need to inform lawmakers about plans and approaches in this area is crucial, especially as international relations continue to evolve. The emerging partnership between Russia and China, along with the supply of conventional weapons to Russia by North Korea and Iran, has led Washington to reevaluate its position in the realm of nuclear security. This shift in perspective indicates the new strategic environment that the United States and the world at large are facing. In this scenario, U.S. nuclear policy not only focuses on deterrence against traditional adversaries but also considers the changing nature of alliances and military capabilities in the 21st century. The Biden administration, aware of these dynamics, seeks to develop a strategy that reflects contemporary geopolitical realities. However, the lack of effective dialogue with China regarding nuclear security poses an additional risk. The talks that took place last fall have not continued, creating uncertainty about the future of nuclear relations between the two powers. This could have significant repercussions not only for the United States but for the entire international community. In summary, the decisions made by Biden in the nuclear realm reflect a proactive approach to an increasingly complex security landscape. The need to adapt to new realities and global threats has become imperative, while the quest for stability in conflict-ridden regions remains a constant challenge for the U.S. administration.