Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated that Russia will continue to adhere to nuclear weapon limitations established under the expired New START treaty with the USA, but only contingent on similar actions from the USA.
Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has announced that Russia will maintain its adherence to the nuclear arms limits set out in the New START treaty, which recently expired. Lavrov emphasized that these limitations on the number of nuclear warheads will only remain in effect as long as the United States reciprocates with similar actions. This announcement comes in the context of increasing tensions between the two countries regarding nuclear disarmament and international security.
The New START treaty, which has been in force since 2011, imposed a cap of 1,550 nuclear warheads per side and was seen as a crucial framework for nuclear arms control. Following its expiration in February, the future of nuclear disarmament talks remains uncertain. Lavrov's comments suggest a willingness from Russia to engage in future agreements, provided that the USA also commits to maintaining nuclear arms limits. This indicator of potential dialogue hints at the complexities of arms control in the current geopolitical climate.
Amidst these evolving discussions on nuclear arsenals, the topic of including China in any future agreements has been raised, particularly by former US President Donald Trump. He underscored the necessity of expanding the nuclear conversation to include China's rapidly growing capabilities. This reflects a broader desire to navigate the shifting landscape of global nuclear power and the importance of collaboration among major powers to enhance international security.
