Trump Proposes Joint Denuclearization Talks with Xi and Putin
Former U.S. President Donald Trump has floated the idea of a joint meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin, emphasizing his desire for global denuclearization. Trump revealed his plans to reporters, stating that he intends to pursue these talks once conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine are resolved.
Trump’s Rationale for Denuclearization
Trump expressed concern over the excessive number of nuclear weapons already possessed by different nations. He stressed that there is no need for continued nuclear weapons development, highlighting the devastating consequences they could have. Trump argued that significant sums spent on nuclear weapons could be allocated to more constructive endeavors.
The United States, according to a Congressional Budget Office report, is projected to invest approximately $756 billion in nuclear weapons between 2023 and 2032. Trump’s proposal for a joint meeting is seen as an attempt to reduce global nuclear spending and arsenals.
Trump’s Vision for Future Meetings
Trump expressed his intention to schedule meetings with Xi and Putin early in his potential second term as president. He proposed requesting that both China and Russia consider halving their military budgets. Trump claimed that he believes it’s achievable and expressed indifference towards traveling to meet the leaders or having them visit the White House.
Historical Context of Nuclear Disarmament
Since the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, the United States has substantially reduced its nuclear arsenal. As of September 2023, the U.S. maintains 3,748 nuclear warheads, significantly lower than the 22,217 it possessed in 1989. The U.S. owned a maximum of 31,255 nuclear warheads in 1966.
In comparison, Russia is estimated to possess around 4,380 nuclear warheads, while China has an arsenal of approximately 600. Trump’s initiative aims to build on previous discussions on denuclearization with both Russia and China.
Failed Previous Negotiations
Previous negotiations between the U.S., Russia, and China faltered in 2020 during Trump’s first administration. Trump declined to extend the 2010 New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty with Russia, which aimed to limit nuclear stockpiles. The Biden administration eventually renewed the treaty in 2021, which expires in 2026. However, Russia has suspended its participation.
Trump blamed the failure of these negotiations on the alleged "rigged election" of 2020.
Trump’s Recent Diplomatic Efforts
Trump’s recent comments on denuclearization follow calls he made to Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. On Wednesday, Trump urged Putin to end the war in Ukraine, threatening sanctions if peace is not established. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent also traveled to Kyiv on Wednesday to discuss financial assistance.
Conclusion
Former President Trump’s proposal for a joint denuclearization meeting with China and Russia reflects his belief in the necessity of reducing global nuclear stockpiles and arsenals. While previous negotiations have failed, Trump hopes to advance these talks in a potential second term. The outcome of these proposed negotiations remains uncertain, but they highlight the ongoing discussions on nuclear disarmament and the potential for future cooperation in this critical area.
