Read the following excerpt from Kennedy's inaugural address. Consider what you know of the historical context in which Kennedy delivered the speech.
Then pick the option below that is most accurate.

Finally, to those nations who would make themselves our
adversary, we offer not a pledge but a request that both sides begin anew the quest for peace, before the dark powers of destruction unleashed by science engulf all humanity in planned or accidental self-destruction,

We dare not tempt them with weakness. For only when our
arms are sufficient beyond doubt can we be certain
beyond doubt that they will never be employed.

But neither can two great and powerful groups of nations
take comfort from our present course -- both sides overburdened by the cost of modern weapons, both rightly
alarmed by the steady spread of the deadly atom, yet both
racing to alter that uncertain balance of terror that stays
the hand of mankind's final war.

A. He believes only Americans are listening to this portion.

B. He believes only the Russians are listening to this portion.

C. He believes Americans, Russians, and others are all listening to this portion.

D. None of the above