U.S. says it intends to work with nuclear-armed countries to deter attacks

© Provided by News 360 File image of a nuclear power plant in Bavaria, Germany. - Peter Kneffel/dpa

The U.S. Department of Defense said Friday that it intends to work with countries that possess nuclear weapons in order to prevent future nuclear wars.

"Despite the challenges in today's security environment, the United States will continue to pursue engagements with other nuclear weapons states, where possible, to reduce nuclear risks," Deputy Defense Secretary Colin Kahl said at the UN Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty Review Conference in New York City.

Kahl emphasized that dialogue, communication and transparency are "important factors" for nuclear deterrence and thus for reducing the risks of nuclear war.

In addition, the undersecretary mentioned Russia's threats during the invasion of Ukraine, China's expansion, Iran's position and North Korea's "possible preparations" as major impediments to the elimination of nuclear weapons, according to a statement released by the U.S. Department of State.

"We encourage nuclear weapons states to engage with the United States on risk reduction measures as well as provide transparency on nuclear posture and doctrine," it added.

Kahl also pointed out some of the highlights of the Nuclear Posture Review, which the Biden Administration is working on.

Among these measures, the "commitment to nuclear modernization with the goals of a safe, secure and effective nuclear deterrent" and "taking steps to reduce the role of nuclear weapons globally with a commitment to arms control" are important.

"The United States wholeheartedly recognizes and reaffirms that a nuclear war cannot be won and should never be fought," the undersecretary of defense concluded in his participation in the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty Review Conference.