The term “nuclear” can refer to nuclear weapons, nuclear power, or both. Here’s a breakdown for both contexts:
1. Countries with Nuclear Weapons
These are states that have produced and/or deployed nuclear warheads.
Recognized Nuclear-Weapon States (NPT)
- United States
- Russia
- United Kingdom
- France
- China
Non-NPT Nuclear-Weapon States (not signatories or withdrew from NPT)
- India
- Pakistan
- North Korea (withdrew from NPT)
- Israel (undeclared but widely believed to have nuclear weapons)
2. Countries with Nuclear Power (Civil Nuclear Energy)
These countries use nuclear reactors for electricity generation. Over 30 countries operate at least one nuclear power station, including:
- United States
- France
- China
- Russia
- Japan
- South Korea
- Canada
- Germany (phased out reactors in 2023, currently no active plants)
- Ukraine
- United Kingdom
- Sweden
- Spain
- India
- Belgium
- Switzerland
- Czech Republic
- Finland
- Hungary
- Slovakia
- Brazil
- South Africa
- Pakistan
- Romania
- Argentina
- Iran
- Mexico
- Bulgaria
- Armenia
- Netherlands
- Turkey (first reactor commissioned in 2023)
- United Arab Emirates
Other countries are constructing or planning nuclear power plants.
Summary Table
| Nuclear Weapons | Nuclear Power |
|---|---|
| US, Russia, UK, France, China | 30+ countries incl. US, France, China |
| India, Pakistan, North Korea | and most of the above, plus others |
| Israel (undeclared) | like South Korea, Canada, Ukraine, etc. |
If you have a specific aspect in mind (weapons vs. power, or a specific region), let me know for more details!