China’s Defense Ministry has accused the US of seeking to “intimidate the world” with its nuclear power.
Spokesman Zhang Xiaogang said on Friday that America poses the greatest nuclear threat to the world due to its “irresponsible decisions” in maintaining global dominance. He criticized Washington for using its nuclear arsenal to intimidate the international community.
These accusations stem from the Pentagon’s decision to upgrade US Forces Japan into a joint force headquarters. This upgrade, announced in late July, places a three-star officer in command, reporting directly to the Indo-Pacific Command commander.
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin hailed the development as a significant improvement in US-Japan military ties, emphasizing their commitment to “extended deterrence.” This includes a pledge to “defend Japan with the full range of our capabilities, including our nuclear capabilities.”
Zhang Xiaogang argues that the US and Japan are using the “China military threat” as justification for their actions. He believes these actions provoke conflict and destabilize the region.
The Pentagon’s July statement did mention China’s nuclear arsenal expansion as a topic discussed during the “extended deterrence meeting.” According to the Chinese Defense Ministry spokesman, the US poses the greatest nuclear threat due to its vast nuclear arsenal and its policy of allowing first use of nuclear weapons.
The US National Defense Strategy, published in 2022, identifies Russia, China, North Korea, and Iran as potential nuclear adversaries. The strategy also allows for a nuclear first strike to prevent conventional attacks.
In 2018, the US withdrew from the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty with Moscow, citing China’s non-participation in the agreement. The US continues to pursue modernization of its nuclear arsenal.
The New START Treaty, the last bilateral agreement limiting American and Russian nuclear stockpiles, is set to expire in 2026. Russia suspended its participation last year, citing hostile US policies, but pledged to uphold its core terms.
In October 2023, the Pentagon accused China of rapidly expanding its nuclear arsenal, prompting calls for war preparations against both China and Russia. The US also announced plans to modernize its most powerful nuclear bomb.
Zhang Xiaogang contends that the US’s actions in Japan escalate regional tensions and increase the risk of nuclear proliferation and conflict.