Swedish Diplomat Found Dead After Espionage Investigation

The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) has issued a grave warning regarding the potential risks of using artificial intelligence (AI) to manage nuclear weapon systems. In its 2025 yearbook, SIPRI states that automated nuclear launch decisions could result in full AI control over nuclear arsenals, endangering humanity. According to SIPRI Director Dan Smith, such a scenario could bring us closer to "true doomsday situations."
The report highlights the ongoing nuclear modernization efforts by nearly all nine nuclear-armed nations, including the U.S., Russia, China, and others, amid heightened geopolitical tensions. As of January 2025, the global inventory of nuclear warheads stands at approximately 12,241, with around 9,614 in military stockpiles, including 3,912 deployed on missiles and aircraft. SIPRI notes that Russia and the U.S. collectively hold around 90% of these weapons, while China's arsenal is growing rapidly, currently estimated at over 600 warheads. The institute calls for urgent reevaluation of nuclear arms control measures to mitigate these risks.