THE TENSION: Gates' Statement on the Task Force on Nuclear Weapons Management

News in Balance:

WASHINGTON, Jan. 8, 2009 -- The following is the text of a statement made by U.S. Secretary of Defense Robert Gates released Thursday regarding the the Task Force on Nuclear Weapons Management:

“I want to thank the review panel, led by James R. Schlesinger, for their very thorough and detailed report on the ‘Secretary of Defense’s Task Force on Nuclear Weapons Management,’” said Secretary of Defense Robert Gates today. “I really appreciate the tremendous effort that went into the phase two review of the DoD nuclear mission and commend all of the task force members on the thoughtful recommendations made with respect to these complex and serious issues.”

“The U.S. nuclear deterrent remains safe, secure and reliable; no one should doubt our capabilities or our resolve to defend U.S. and allies’ interests by deterring aggression. The report identified numerous trends, both recent and long-term, that may warrant corrective actions. The Department will continue to review the panel’s recommendations while ensuring the long-term credibility of the U.S. nuclear deterrent forces and sustaining allied confidence in U.S. security commitments well into the future,” said Gates.