> any somewhat-functional state can build a nuke if they really really want to. We are already in such a world, what prevents proliferation are not technical r

> any somewhat-functional state can build a nuke if they really really want to. We are already in such a world, what prevents proliferation are not technical reasons, but the strong international pressure - both by nuclear and non-nuclear states. It's not unfathomable to conceive a world where such pressure (and the threat of conventional attacks) could be strong enough to prevent any proliferation, where the international community would closely watch over any such activity and immediately stomp on any small scale dictator looking for an easy edge. What's harder to imagine is a way to get from here to there. Before engaging in any multilateral talks and treaties, I believe the mere hint of renouncing nukes would be political suicide inside US.