The Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile will take flight from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.

Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered his top officials on Wednesday to draft proposals for a possible test of nuclear weapons, something Moscow has not done since the 1991 collapse of the Soviet Union.

The Minuteman III missile test launch comes after Russia tested its nuclear-powered torpedo and cruise missile, and China showcased its newest ICBMs. It remains to be seen whether the U.S. will carry out additional tests to signal its nuclear capabilities.

Energy Secretary Christopher Wright clarifies U.S. nuclear testing plans, confirming no explosive detonations but systems testing of weapons components instead.

Senate Democrats wrote a Wednesday letter to President Trump seeking clarification on the scope of resumed nuclear testing after Energy Secretary Chris Wright said such testing will not include nuclear explosions.

US president claims China, Russia have carried out secret nuclear weapon tests as he seeks to justify return to testing.