Nuclear Issues

Though nuclear weapons have not been used since 1945, their threat is omnipresent when nuclear powers join the battlefield. CSIS scholars analyze key nuclear policy issues including deterrence, escalation, and arms control.

Photo: U.S. Air Force Photo/Senior Airman Sergio A. Gamboa

Photo: U.S. Air Force Photo/Senior Airman Sergio A. Gamboa

On the Horizon, Vol. 8

The 2025 PONI Nuclear Scholars explore the future of nuclear strategy, offering perspectives from emerging experts on disruptive technology, intensifying geopolitical rivalries, and strategic stability.

Report by Doreen Horschig — December 18, 2025

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Past Events

Photo: Air Force Staff Sgt. Maddy Keech, DOW

Photo: Air Force Staff Sgt. Maddy Keech, DOW

The Arsenal of Freedom Tour

January 22, 2026 • 3:00 – 4:00 pm EST
Webcast
Hosted by HTK Series
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Experts

Williams

Heather Williams

Director, Project on Nuclear Issues and Senior Fellow, Defense and Security Department
Victor Cha

Victor Cha

President, Geopolitics and Foreign Policy Department and Korea Chair
Joseph Rodgers

Joseph Rodgers

Deputy Director and Fellow, Project on Nuclear Issues

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Parading China’s Nuclear Arsenal Out of the Shadows

China's Victory Day parade unveiled a full nuclear triad, challenging U.S. strategic superiority and signaling a new era of deterrence aimed at preventing intervention in a Taiwan conflict.

Commentary by Joseph Rodgers and Heather Williams — September 4, 2025

China's Victory Day Military Parade

On September 3, China held its Victory Day parade to mark the 80th anniversary of China’s victory over Japan and the end of World War II. The military parade showcased China’s weapons and growing military capabilities.

Event — September 3, 2025

Trump Moves “Nuclear” Subs: Negotiating Tactic or Escalatory Gamble?

Trump sent nuclear submarines closer to Russia following a week of social media clashes with the former Russian president, while his envoy heads to Moscow to broker a ceasefire before the deadline. Amid wild speculation, this commentary assesses the latest.

Critical Questions by Mark F. Cancian and Chris H. Park — August 6, 2025

U.S.-UK Strategic Cooperation

Please join the CSIS Defense and Security Department for a conversation on recent developments in U.S.-UK strategic cooperation. 

Event — July 30, 2025

High-Altitude Nuclear Explosions: Myths and Reality

What would happen if a nuclear weapon detonated in the sky, not on the ground? Would there be survivors? Would your iPhone work? This briefing dispels common misconceptions about high-altitude nuclear explosions and summarizes the current state of research on the subject.

Brief by Scott Pence and Adam F. Reynolds — July 14, 2025