Part 6/14:
In a dramatic move preceding the meeting, Trump announced plans to restart US nuclear testing—a signal that may be aimed at signaling strength to Russia and China. Friedman interprets this as a message to Russian President Vladimir Putin, especially amidst increasing Russian rhetoric threatening tactical nuclear weapons. It could serve to demonstrate America's continued nuclear capability, subtly warning Russia against escalation.
Interestingly, Friedman suggests that Trump's tough talk may not indicate a genuine desire to revert to nuclear confrontation but instead function as strategic signaling, especially as the US seeks to stabilize its relationship with China through economic agreements.