New Nuclear Energy: Assessing the National Security Risks


May 23, 2024

New Nuclear Energy: Assessing the National Security Risks | Sharon Squassoni | April 2024

New Nuclear Energy: Assessing the National Security Risks is the latest report from Elliott School Research Professor Sharon Squassoni. Squassoni is an expert in nuclear nonproliferation, nuclear energy, and weapons of mass destruction. Her report provides a comprehensive examination of the risks of nuclear energy and nuclear weapons. From small modular reactors, to Russia's actions against nuclear reactors in Ukraine, and beyond, Professor Squassoni tackles the tough questions in the debate about the future of nuclear power. Her analysis concludes that, "The nuclear energy future that is being proposed now – small, flexible reactors distributed everywhere for many uses besides electricity – will not reduce, but will add to the national security risks that are unique to nuclear energy." Consequently, Squassoni calls on the U.S. State Department to, "...commission a new International Security Advisory Board study on how the national security risks posed by nuclear energy have changed over the last two decades." "Above all," she argues, "the United States needs to weigh nuclear solutions to climate change against other low-carbon options that pose fewer national security risks and may be more resilient to disruption."

For more, check out the complete report available via open access, online.