The U.S. government has released new intelligence on an alleged secret Chinese nuclear test conducted in 2020, raising concerns about China's nuclear arsenal expansion. On June 22, 2020, a remote seismic station in Kazakhstan detected a tiny earthquake, registering just 2.75 magnitude, originating from China's main nuclear test site, Lop Nur. Assistant Secretary for Arms Control and Nonproliferation Christopher Yeaw suggests it's likely a nuclear explosion, consistent with a test. However, independent experts like Ben Dando from NORSAR are cautious, noting the signal's weakness and the need for more data to confirm the event's nature. The Chinese government denies the allegations, but satellite imagery and equipment expansion at Lop Nur suggest ongoing activity. China's nuclear arsenal is expanding rapidly, with a goal of 1,000 warheads by 2030, despite limited test data. This expansion raises questions about China's intentions and potential challenges for arms control negotiations. The U.S. is also considering a return to nuclear testing, which could impact global nuclear dynamics and the balance of power.
