The Pentagon released an annual report indicating a slowdown in the rate of China's nuclear buildup even as the Department of Defense adopts a more conciliatory tone toward Beijing. While China is still projected to reach 1,000 warheads by 2030, the military is focusing on lower-yield weapons and early counterstrike capabilities to modernize the PLA. This assessment follows warnings from Donald Trump regarding nuclear negotiations and new domestic surveillance laws under Xi Jinping that expand digital control.The assessment follows warnings from Donald Trump regarding nuclear negotiations and new domestic surveillance laws under Xi Jinping that expand digital control.Despite the massive military buildup, officials emphasized a commitment to stabilizing tensions to prevent conflict over regional interests like Taiwan.