On the Loose: The Market for Nuclear Weapons (Underground Markets) (Chronology‪)‬

Addressing the National Defense University in Washington, on February 11, 2004, US President George W. Bush warned about an underground market that has grave consequences for global security: "In recent years, another path of [nuclear] proliferation has become clear, as well. America and other nations are learning about black-market operatives who deal in equipment and expertise related to weapons of mass destruction. These dealers are motivated by greed, or fanaticism, or both. They find eager customers in outlaw regimes, which pay millions for the parts and plans they need to speed up their weapons programs. And with deadly technology and expertise going on the market, there's the terrible possibility that terrorist groups could obtain the ultimate weapons they desire most." [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]