Activists Warn of Looming Nuclear Midnight

Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists moves Doomsday Clock to 85 seconds to midnight, raising alarm about nuclear threats

Feb. 27, 2026 at 9:07pm

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In a powerful essay, activist Frida Berrigan describes her fears about the growing nuclear threat, as the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists has moved the Doomsday Clock to a record-breaking 85 seconds to 'nuclear midnight.' Berrigan grapples with how to discuss these existential risks with her young children, while also highlighting the grassroots efforts underway to prevent nuclear war and promote disarmament.

Why it matters

The Doomsday Clock's move to 85 seconds to midnight reflects the growing dangers posed by nuclear weapons, climate change, and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence. With the expiration of key arms control treaties, the world is facing a new era of nuclear proliferation and heightened risk of conflict. Berrigan's essay underscores the urgent need for international cooperation and public engagement to address these threats to humanity's survival.

The details

The Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists recently announced that the Doomsday Clock, a symbolic representation of the threat of nuclear war, has been moved to 85 seconds to midnight - the closest it has ever been to the metaphorical 'nuclear midnight.' This decision was based not only on the increasing nuclear dangers, but also the accelerating impacts of climate change and the risks posed by advanced technologies like AI. The expiration of the New START treaty between the U.S. and Russia has further eroded the global arms control architecture, leaving the world more vulnerable to the whims of leaders like Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin.

  • On February 5th, 2026, the last major nuclear arms control treaty between the U.S. and Russia expired without a replacement.
  • In January 2026, the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists moved the Doomsday Clock to 85 seconds to midnight, the closest it has ever been to the symbolic 'nuclear midnight.'

The players

Frida Berrigan

An activist and author who is grappling with how to discuss the growing nuclear threat with her young children.

Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists

The organization that maintains the Doomsday Clock, a symbolic representation of the threat of nuclear war and other global catastrophes.

Donald Trump

The former U.S. president whose administration has been dismantling key nuclear arms control treaties.

Vladimir Putin

The president of Russia, who has threatened to use nuclear weapons and is investing in expanding Russia's nuclear arsenal.

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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 of the Atomic Scientists' Science and Security Board

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

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.