No First Use
The idea is simple: we don’t need to use nuclear weapons first. We can protect ourselves and our allies without having to start a nuclear war. A “No First Use” policy would make clear that the purpose of the U.S. nuclear arsenal is deterrence, not nuclear war-fighting. A policy like this is just common sense. As President Reagan said, “A nuclear war can never be won and must never be fought.” Implementing a No First Use policy would make America and its allies safer by increasing clarity on how and when the United States would use nuclear weapons, and would reduce nuclear risks worldwide. Below, you’ll find a quick explainer as well as additional resources on No First Use. You can also view and download our factsheet.
What an NFU policy would do:
A No First Use (NFU) policy would make it the policy of the United States not to use nuclear weapons first, which means that nuclear weapons would only be used to respond to a nuclear attack against the United States or our allies. It would formalize that nuclear weapons are only for deterrence, not nuclear war-fighting.
An NFU policy would lower risks by assuring nuclear-armed adversaries that they don’t have to worry the United States will use nuclear weapons first during a crisis.
An NFU policy is also the logical extension of the powers given to Congress in the Constitution. Only Congress can declare war, and the unprovoked first use of a nuclear weapon would most certainly be a declaration of war.
What an NFU policy would not do:
An NFU policy would not limit the United States from taking retaliatory action against someone who launches a nuclear strike against it or its allies.
An NFU policy would not change the President’s ability to use conventional forces first under warranted circumstances.
An NFU policy is not about one particular President; it is about the United States taking steps to reduce global nuclear risks.
What is happening with NFU Policy?
Members of Congress have introduced multiple bills that would directly or effectively implement an NFU policy. Even if these bills garner widespread support in Congress, the current White House is unlikely to support this policy change. But this is not an issue that is confined to Washington. In fact, cities and states across the country have passed resolutions encouraging the federal government to support an NFU policy. Public support and action can help make an NFU policy a reality.
You have a voice on whether the United States should ever start a nuclear war. Get the latest on NFU by following @NoFirstUse on Twitter.