As geopolitical tensions escalate, the fear of nuclear warfare intensifies the global discourse on nuclear weapons. China has recently advocated for a 'no first use' policy, urging nuclear-armed states to adopt a stance of not initiating a nuclear strike under any circumstances.
The core of the 'no first use' policy lies in the commitment to use nuclear weapons solely in retaliation to a nuclear attack, thereby reducing the likelihood of preemptive strikes and fostering international trust. Experts argue that such a policy could significantly contribute to global stability and safety by mitigating the risks associated with nuclear deterrence.
Key figures in this discussion include Zhou Bo, a senior fellow at the Center for International Security and Strategy at Tsinghua University; Dr. Jan Oberg, director of the Transnational Foundation for Peace & Future Research; and Dr. Alexander Titov, a lecturer in Modern European History at Queen’s University Belfast. They explore the potential impact of China's proposal and whether major nuclear powers like the U.S. and Russia will consider embracing a similar approach.
The adoption of a 'no first use' policy by multiple nuclear nations could pave the way for enhanced global security measures, fostering a more cooperative international environment. However, skepticism remains regarding the willingness of these powers to relinquish their strategic advantages.
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Can China’s proposal of "no first use" prevent a global nuclear war?
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