How to avoid nuclear war with China

• Published in: Bulletin of the atomic scientists 2023-03, Vol.79 (2), p.57-64
• Main Authors: Garwin, Richard L., von Hippel, Frank N.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: arms control with China; China; nuclear activism; nuclear threat reduction; nuclear weapons; Taiwan
• ISSN: 0096-3402; 1938-3282
• DOI: 10.1080/00963402.2023.2178161

The United States is in a developing military confrontation with China over Taiwan. China has built long-distance precision strike missiles to prevent US Navy task forces from participating effectively. The early Cold War confrontation between the Soviet Union and United States over West Berlin provides a relevant precedent. There is a significant probability a war between China and the United States could escalate to nuclear threats or even use. Recently, China has launched a major buildup of its nuclear forces. It is urgent that the two countries launch talks on nuclear arms control, both to prevent a nuclear arms race and to reassure each other that both want to avoid a nuclear conflict. Citizens should reengage with their governments to urge alternatives to a new nuclear arms race, and US scientists should brainstorm with their Chinese counterparts about nuclear risks and risk reduction.