China plays nuclear catch-up, with perils for the region

A rise in the number of warheads and missiles could increase Beijing’s ability to deter the US from intervening militarily in a regional crisis, and spur countries such as Japan and South Korea to consider also going nuclear.

China is reportedly in the midst of a dramatic expansion of both missiles and warheads. PHOTO: REUTERS
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With the onset of a new global chill in some ways similar to the Cold War, dread of a possible nuclear conflict has returned.

In November, Russia cancelled talks with the United States that might have revived the regular inspections mandated by the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty. Moscow indirectly said the reason was US support for Ukraine.

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