Secretary of War Pete Hegseth on Friday reportedly described the Trump administration’s decision to resume nuclear testing as “very responsible,” framing the move as a necessary step to ensure American security and maintain global stability.
Speaking to reporters after meeting with the secretary general of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, Hegseth emphasized that the resumption of testing is aimed at preserving a credible deterrent, not provoking conflict.
“One reporter asked, ‘On nuclear testing, what type of testing is the Defense Department tasked with and how soon?’” Hegseth recounted. “Well, we would work with the Department of Energy. But the president has been clear; we need to have a credible nuclear deterrent. That is the baseline. And so, having understanding and resuming testing is a pretty responsible — very responsible — way to do that. I think it makes nuclear conflict less likely if you know what you have and make sure it operates properly.”
Hegseth outlined the administration’s broader strategic reasoning, stressing that a robust nuclear arsenal strengthens U.S. alliances and discourages adversaries. “It’s the right directive. We’re moving out quickly, and America will ensure that we have the strongest, most capable nuclear arsenal, so that we maintain peace through strength. That’s what this is. In every meeting, that’s what we talk about. Peace through strength,” he said.
The secretary underscored that the administration is not seeking conflict, noting the strategic benefits of a capable deterrent in a volatile global landscape. “We don’t seek conflict with China or any other nation. But the stronger we are, the stronger our alliances are, the more we work with allies in this region and around the world, I think the less likely conflict becomes. And that’s the kind of leadership this part of the world has been looking for, for a long time,” Hegseth said.
He praised the administration’s broader approach to defense and diplomacy, suggesting that renewed American vigor has reinvigorated allies and created opportunities for cooperative security efforts. “A year ago we were a dead country, and he’s right.
What you’re seeing here is a revived spirit of allies and partners that look at an energized America, energized opportunities to work together, and the world takes notice of that. It creates a whole bunch of new opportunities,” Hegseth said.
The secretary also noted that the administration anticipates criticism from some quarters, but defended the policy as necessary and deliberate. “Across the board, this administration is focused on peace through strength in ways that critics will try to point fingers at. But the president knows exactly why and what he’s executing, so do we, and we’re proud to do it,” he said.
Hegseth’s comments come amid growing international concern over nuclear proliferation and global security. By emphasizing readiness and deterrence, the Trump administration is signaling that America intends to maintain clear strategic advantages while reassuring allies in Asia and beyond.
According to Hegseth, understanding and testing the nation’s nuclear capabilities is central to ensuring peace and stability in the 21st century, reinforcing the administration’s mantra of “peace through strength.”
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