The role of nuclear weapons in modern global politics

Kuat Musin; Almaz Zheksekin

The role of nuclear weapons in modern global politics

Abstract

The place of nuclear weapons in current world politics remains an important issue due to the threat of nuclear war, strategic relations between countries with nuclear capabilities, and the impact on international stability and security. However, this issue is becoming increasingly relevant in light of the growing confrontation between countries with significant nuclear capabilities, in particular between China and the United States. Thus, the purpose of this study is to examine the impact of nuclear weapons on international relations, the preservation of peace and security in the modern world, and the use of nuclear weapons as a deterrent and/or threat tool. The methodological basis of the study is the analysis of documents and legislation, historical analysis, structural and functional method, and system method. The results of the study highlight the history of the emergence and development of nuclear weapons, and attempts to regulate their volumes. The current state of nuclear arsenals of states, the location of nuclear weapons, their modernisation and role in modern international relations are investigated, and statistics on nuclear warheads of nuclear countries are provided. The role of diplomacy and international agreements in the management of nuclear weapons is also analysed. They recalled the current geopolitical conflicts and tensions between states, and manipulations by nuclear countries that can lead to an increase in the risks of nuclear escalation. As a result of the study, key factors and aspects that determine the role of nuclear weapons in international politics were identified, such as deterrence, threats, proliferation, and international agreements, their impact on international stability, international diplomacy, terrorism, and technological challenges related to nuclear issues. Research on this topic is of practical importance for shaping political strategies, ensuring world peace and security, and raising awareness of possible threats and challenges associated with nuclear weapons

Keywords

Russian war against Ukraine; maintenance of international peace and security; principles of international security; deterrence; manipulation

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Suggested citation

Musin, K.S., & Zheksekin, A.K. (2023). The role of nuclear weapons in modern global politics. Foreign Affairs, 33(6), 40-51. https://doi.org/10.46493/2663-2675.33(6).2023.40-51