Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated that Russia would adhere to nuclear weapons limits outlined in a now-lapsed treaty, contingent upon the United States doing the same.
During a parliamentary address, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov affirmed that Russia is willing to adhere to the nuclear weapons limits set out in the now-expired New START treaty, provided that the United States maintains similar restrictions. Despite the treaty’s expiration and previous statements suggesting that Russia might no longer feel bound by its terms, Lavrov emphasized a continued moratorium on arms development and deployment that aligns with U.S. compliance.
The New START agreement, which was the last major arms control framework between the two nuclear superpowers, expired earlier this month without any extension agreement being reached. President Vladimir Putin had offered a one-year extension prior to the treaty's expiration, but the U.S. did not respond affirmatively. This situation reflects ongoing tensions between the countries over nuclear arms control, with both sides expressing interest in negotiating a new agreement to replace the lapsed treaty.
Lavrov's conciliatory tone signals Russia's strategic approach to nuclear disarmament and arms control, highlighting a willingness to collaborate on global security matters if the U.S. reciprocates. His comments come amid mounting geopolitical tensions and bring attention to the fragile state of international arms agreements, stressing the need for dialogue to prevent an arms race that could have severe global implications.
