As Long as Russia, China Have Nukes, So Will America

Photo: Air Force Gen. Robert Kehler

U.S. General: As Long as Russia, China Have Nukes, So Will America -- US News And World Report

Washington will not significantly shrink its nuclear weapons arsenal as long as Moscow and Beijing possess their own atomic arms that could target the United States, says the general who oversees America's nuclear fleet.

Senior U.S. officials do not view the Russians or Chinese "as enemies," says Air Force Gen. Robert Kehler, U.S. Strategic Command chief. Still, both possess long-range nuclear missiles that could hit U.S. cities or targets, meaning "we must be mindful" of a need to maintain a robust U.S. nuclear fleet, he told a forum Wednesday in Washington.

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My Comment: The key for further reductions is Russia .... but they are now intent on modernizing their nuclear forces, and they have made it very clear that they are not interested in further reductions.

Update: Key US general soothes Russian concerns on missile defense, nuclear weapons -- US News and World Report