U.S. President Joe Biden has secretly approved a new, highly classified nuclear strategy that shifts the focus of America’s deterrent efforts toward addressing the growing threat from China, according to a recent report by The New York Times. This revised plan, known as the “Nuclear Employment Guidance,” represents a significant strategic realignment in response to China’s expanding nuclear arsenal.
The White House has yet to publicly announce Biden’s approval of this updated strategy, which is designed to refine how the U.S. would use its nuclear forces in the event of a major conflict. The New York Times reveals that an unclassified version of this revised guidance is expected to be submitted to Congress before the end of Biden’s presidency.
The new strategy underscores a heightened emphasis on China, reflecting the increasing concerns within the U.S. government about Beijing’s nuclear ambitions. The strategy, which typically undergoes revisions every four years, now places China at the center of U.S. nuclear planning and deterrence.
In recent speeches, some senior administration officials have hinted at this strategic update, although details have remained closely guarded. The move aligns with a broader shift in U.S. defense policy, aiming to adapt to new global threats and ensure that America’s nuclear posture remains robust in the face of evolving challenges from major adversaries like China.