Alarming Warning: Stunning Increase in Nuclear Weapons Worldwide!

Alarming Warning: Stunning Increase in Nuclear Weapons Worldwide!

In its current annual report, the Stockholm peace research institute SIPRI warns of a worrying trend: nuclear powers around the world are arming themselves again. This development could lead to a new nuclear arms race, which would significantly endanger global security. How ZVW reports, experts estimate that the number of nuclear warheads worldwide has risen to 12,241, with around 9,614 intended for military use. This is an increase of 29 warheads compared to the previous year.

During the reporting period, almost all nuclear weapons states were in intensive modernization programs. China in particular is becoming the focus of the international security situation as it is continually expanding its arsenal with an estimated 600 nuclear warheads. China's arms program is growing with around 100 new warheads per year and could reach almost the size of the USA and Russia in around 20 years daily news reported.

The global nuclear arsenal

The leading nuclear powers include the USA, Russia, Great Britain, France, China, India, Pakistan, North Korea and Israel. Regardless of the global security situation, the number of operational nuclear weapons is increasing, while the dismantling of discarded warheads is progressing more slowly. This results in an increase in the number of operational, active warheads currently placed on missiles or at active military bases, with an estimated 2,100 of these in high operational readiness.

The report also points out that there are signs that other states, particularly in the Middle East, could develop their own nuclear weapons. Iran's nuclear ambitions are increasingly influenced by its conflict with Israel, which further destabilizes the situation. Israel has recently carried out attacks on Iran and its nuclear facilities, raising tensions in the region.

Increased focus on arms control

The new reality of a possible nuclear arms race is highlighted by the failure of several arms control treaties. The INF Treaty and the Open Skies Treaty have suffered recently, while Russia has abrogated the New Start Treaty with the US, which expires in early 2026. This leads to worrying uncertainty in global arms control.

To avoid the dangers of nuclear war, experts warn of the increasing risk of an accident that could be misinterpreted in a hostile climate. The use of artificial intelligence and modern technology could also increase the risk, as Dan Smith, the outgoing SIPRI director, notes. With armed conflicts increasing around the world - there were 49 last year - and military spending continuing to rise, concerns about global stability are greater than ever.

Germany itself does not have nuclear weapons, but the political debate about the European security situation and possible arms control is becoming even more important. More and more voices are calling for European security policy to rely more heavily on that of France and Britain to meet the challenges of the changing geopolitical landscape.