Doomsday Clock Moves Closer to Midnight, Raising Nuclear War Fears

Experts warn of growing threats from nuclear weapons, climate change, and AI

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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The Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists has moved the Doomsday Clock to just 85 seconds before midnight, the closest it has ever been to signaling a potential nuclear catastrophe. With nine countries now possessing nuclear weapons and the collapse of key arms control treaties, the world is facing an increasingly precarious future, raising deep concerns among activists and the public.

Why it matters

The Doomsday Clock's move to 85 seconds to midnight reflects the growing dangers posed by nuclear proliferation, climate change, and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence. The breakdown of arms control agreements between the U.S. and Russia has left the world more vulnerable to the possibility of nuclear war, while rising nationalism and geopolitical tensions increase the risk of miscalculation or conflict.

The details

The Doomsday Clock was moved four seconds closer to midnight, the symbolic point of nuclear catastrophe, by the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists. This is the closest the clock has ever been to midnight, surpassing the 100-second mark set in 2020. Experts cite the ongoing war in Ukraine, the collapse of the New START nuclear treaty between the U.S. and Russia, and the rapid expansion of nuclear arsenals by countries like China as key factors behind the decision.

  • The Doomsday Clock was moved to 85 seconds to midnight on January 27, 2026.
  • The New START treaty between the U.S. and Russia expired on February 5, 2026 without a replacement.

The players

Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists

A nonprofit organization that maintains the Doomsday Clock, a symbolic clock face that represents threats to humanity and the planet.

Donald Trump

The former president of the United States, whose administration is accused of undermining key nuclear arms control agreements.

Vladimir Putin

The president of Russia, whose country has been rapidly expanding its nuclear arsenal and is engaged in a war in Ukraine.

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What they’re saying

“The dangerous trends in nuclear risk, climate change, disruptive technologies like AI, and biosecurity are accompanied by another frightening development: the rise of nationalistic autocracies in countries around the world. Our greatest challenges require international trust and cooperation, and a world splintering into 'us versus them' will leave all of humanity more vulnerable.”

— Daniel Holz, Member of the Bulletin's Science and Security Board (Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists)

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.