China has decided to halt nuclear-arms-control talks with the United States in response to Washington’s arms sales to Taiwan, claiming it has compromised the political atmosphere for the discussions. This move by China, along with Russia’s similar stance, is seen as a setback to global arms-control efforts according to analysts. The U.S. State Department expresses disappointment over China’s decision and believes it undermines strategic stability.
The Biden administration advocates for compartmentalization, keeping nuclear-arms-control talks separate from other contentious issues with China. The U.S., Russia, and China are legally obligated under the Nuclear Non-proliferation Treaty to engage in talks to prevent an arms race, but Russia’s refusal and China’s halt in discussions are seen as serious setbacks.
China currently has an estimated 500 operational nuclear warheads, with a projection to reach over 1,000 by 2030. Despite U.S. concerns about China’s nuclear weapons buildup, Beijing has shown little interest in discussing steps to reduce nuclear weapons risks.
The U.S. has a stockpile of approximately 3,700 nuclear warheads, with Russia having about 1,550 deployed. Taiwan, which receives arms and support from the U.S., has been the center of increased military activity by China, causing tensions in the region.
Overall, the halt in nuclear-arms-control talks between China and the U.S. due to arms sales to Taiwan is a significant development that could impact global efforts to prevent an arms race.
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