A new nuclear race could begin as Trump and Putin revive Cold War shadows

The Budapest Peace Summit between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin was postponed following US sanctions on Russian oil giants Rosneft and Lukoil. Despite mixed signals on diplomatic progress, Russia conducted nuclear-powered missile tests, including the Burevestnik ICBM and Poseidon underwater drone, showcasing advanced, hard-to-intercept capabilities. Analysts warn these demonstrations signal a new era of nuclear posturing, with potential implications for global strategic stability. Trump’s directive to accelerate US nuclear testing further intensifies tensions. With the New START Treaty nearing expiration and global powers modernizing arsenals, the US-Russia rivalry signals a renewed nuclear competition reminiscent of Cold War dynamics.