Nuclear Statecraft: The Saudi Deal and U.S.-China Competition
On August 24, 2026, the Trump administration submitted to Congress a civil nuclear agreement with Saudi Arabia, triggering a 90-day review. The deal could allow Saudi Arabia to enrich uranium and has drawn criticism over proliferation risks. It is also framed as part of U.S.-China competition.
Why it matters: The deal exemplifies the return of nuclear statecraft as a tool for great power competition.