In response to the escalating nuclear programs of Russia, China, and North Korea, the White House has issued a major warning, stating that the United States may have to broaden its nuclear weapons arsenal. Pranay Vaddi, Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for Arms Control at the White House, delivered this message during a speech to the Arms Control Association on Friday.

Vaddi expressed concern over the rapid expansion and diversification of nuclear arsenals by these three countries. He emphasized that they have shown little or no interest in arms control, creating a situation where the US may need to increase its own deployed nuclear weapons in the coming years.

The White House believes that if the US adversaries continue their current trajectory, an increase in the number of nuclear weapons may become necessary to dissuade them and ensure the safety of the American people, as well as the country's allies and partners. Vaddi highlighted that the cooperation between Russia, China, and North Korea, including sharing missile and drone technology, could further aggravate regional tensions.

The warning from the White House follows recent threats from Russian President Vladimir Putin, who suggested deploying conventional missiles within range of Western powers. This statement came after some countries had granted Ukraine authorization to use their weapons against Russian military targets. Putin, however, dismissed the need for nuclear weapons, stating that such an extreme measure was not necessary at the time.

Donald Trump also weighed in on the issue, stating in an interview with Fox News that nuclear war poses a "bigger threat" to the United States than climate change. Despite Russia holding the largest nuclear arsenal in the world, the United States has not surpassed the limit of 1,550 strategic nuclear warheads established in the 2010 New START deal with Moscow, according to a Reuters report.

Amid rising tensions between major global powers, the White House's warning serves as a reminder of the increasing risks in the international landscape. As the United States considers its options, the possibility of expanding its nuclear weapons arsenal appears to be a serious consideration in order to maintain a balance of power and protect national security interests.