章 109: Reaction of the world

February 24, 1953, The world was ready to witness the much-anticipated French nuclear test set for February 25.

Intelligence communities were buzzing, eyes glued to France's preparations. But in the vast, quiet desert of Pokhran, India had just detonated a bomb that shaked the world.

The geopolitical landscape was unprepared for the news, leaving major powers scrambling to respond, their attention pulled sharply from France's efforts to India's sudden nuclear success.

As the news spread, governments across the globe reacted with shock and concern. India had achieved what they had all believed was years away. Now, the world had to reckon with a new nuclear power.

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Washington, D.C. - The White House Situation Room

The Situation Room in Washington was in chaos. Phones rang, advisors rushed in and out with reports in hand, and the President paced back and forth, frustration and disbelief etched across his face.