At the time of the China-Russia summit, the United States conducted a test launch of a nuclear missile, drawing widespread attention from around the world.
On May 20, the U.S. Department of Defense confirmed publicly that, in order to assess the readiness of its nuclear strike forces, one "Minuteman III" intercontinental ballistic missile was test-launched on the same day, sparking concern.
The U.S. side stated that this test launch had no relation to other global events occurring on the same day, including the China-Russia summit, and was part of a previously scheduled plan. The missile was launched at 00:01 local time from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, without any warhead loaded, and the test achieved its intended objectives.
According to available data, the Minuteman III is the only land-based intercontinental ballistic missile currently in service with the United States, with 400 units in active deployment. It has a range of up to 13,000 kilometers and can carry multiple independently targetable reentry vehicles (MIRVs), having been in service for over 55 years.
Evidently, despite the U.S. insistence that the test was unrelated to current global developments, the timing—coinciding precisely with the China-Russia summit—has sparked speculation. This move also serves to align with the Trump administration's nuclear policy, functioning as a strategic deterrent by testing long-range nuclear strike capabilities.
Furthermore, some analysts suggest that the U.S. action is a response to Russia’s test launch of the “Sarmat” nuclear missile on May 12. Through this demonstration, Trump aims to send a message to Putin, showcasing American nuclear strike capability and bolstering confidence among regional allies.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1865791721107456/
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