Technologies such as AI are exacerbating the risks posed by growing global nuclear arsenals, the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) said. Photo: Getty Images.

SIPRI cites China’s nuclear weapons stockpile growing rapidly from 500 to 600 warheads in just one year. In addition, the last nuclear arms control treaty between Russia and the United States, the two countries possessing nuclear weapons, is about to expire. Photo: Shutterstock.

“One element of the coming arms race will be the struggle for advantage in AI, for both offensive and defensive purposes,” warned Dan Smith, director of SIPRI. Photo: Ahmad Hatefi/UPI/Shutterstock.

While AI could bring some benefits, its reckless application could significantly increase nuclear risks, according to Director Smith. Photo: nuclearweapons.

Mr. Smith emphasized that while AI can make it easier to assess countries' compliance with nuclear treaties, it also increases the risk of helping some countries or extremist groups make hasty, ill-considered decisions. Photo: urbeuniversity.

"AI can speed up decision-making in a crisis, so there is also a risk of war due to misunderstandings, glitches or technical errors," Mr. Smith warned. Photo: urbeuniversity.

At the same time, Mr. Smith commented that a new nuclear arms race is taking place and "the risks this time will be much more diverse and serious than before." Photo: urbeuniversity.

There are currently nine countries in the world that possess nuclear weapons. Of these, five have signed the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), including the UK, France, the US, Russia and China. Photo: urbeuniversity.

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