The Future of Nuclear Weapons, Statecraft, and Deterrence After Ukraine
Worldwide discussion on nuclear deterrence and statecraft reignited with Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and its threat of utilizing nuclear weapons, drawing questions of how the United States and its allies manage these risks and promote responsible nuclear statecraft.
However, the war in Ukraine is not the only challenge to the nuclear global order. Threats from countries like Iran and North Korea prompt states to rethink their strategies, and non-nuclear countries may feel pressured to develop nuclear arsenals. Multilateral institutions’ roles have changed with the nuclear landscape over time, leading to questions of how best to interpret international law around non-proliferation and non-use.
To address these challenges, Perry World House hosted a workshop in April 2023 on “The Future of Nuclear Weapons, Statecraft, and Deterrence After Ukraine,” bringing together policy practitioners and academics for a day-long discussion.
The workshop report—and accompanying thought pieces from participants—discusses the future of nuclear weapons and deterrence, and prospects for global nuclear power and safety.