Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated that Russia will continue to adhere to limits on its nuclear arsenal deployment as long as the United States does the same, following the expiration of the New START treaty.
On November 11, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov reiterated that Russia would respect nuclear arsenal deployment limits provided the United States also adheres to similar restrictions. He emphasized that the restrictions from the New START treaty, which expired on February 5, 2025, would remain effective only if the US does not exceed established limits. Lavrov's remarks were made during a parliamentary speech, suggesting that Russia is taking a 'responsible' stance based on an analysis of US military policy.
The New START treaty was a key bilateral agreement aimed at reducing the nuclear arms race between the two nations, which hold the world's largest nuclear arsenals. With its expiration, concerns have arisen over an unrestricted arms race, potentially leading to increased tensions and a destabilized global security environment. Lavrov's assertion indicates a willingness to cooperate on nuclear limits, but only under reciprocal conditions from the US.
The implications of this stance are significant, as the relationship between Russia and the United States has significantly deteriorated in recent years. The continued adherence to nuclear limits could signal a potential avenue for dialogue, but Lavrov's conditional position underscores the complexities of diplomatic relations amidst competing national security interests. The global community will be watching closely to see if both nations can navigate this challenging landscape to avoid an escalated arms race.
