How to avoid nuclear war with China

ABSTRACT The United States is in a developing military confrontation with China over Taiwan. China has built long-distance precision strike missiles to prevent US Navy task forces from participating effectively. The early Cold War confrontation between the Soviet Union and United States over West Berlin provides a relevant precedent. There is a significant probability a war between China and the United States could escalate to nuclear threats or even use. Recently, China has launched a major buildup of its nuclear forces. It is urgent that the two countries launch talks on nuclear arms control, both to prevent a nuclear arms race and to reassure each other that both want to avoid a nuclear conflict. Citizens should reengage with their governments to urge alternatives to a new nuclear arms race, and US scientists should brainstorm with their Chinese counterparts about nuclear risks and risk reduction.