Putin Signals Russia’s Commitment to Nuclear Arms Deal with U.S. for One More Year: What It Means for Global Security

MOSCOW (AP) — Russian President Vladimir Putin recently expressed his willingness to extend nuclear arms limits for another year under the New START treaty, the last remaining nuclear pact with the U.S. set to expire in February 2026. Putin emphasized that letting this agreement lapse could increase global tensions and encourage the spread of nuclear weapons.

In his televised address, he said that maintaining the treaty could prevent a renewed arms race and ensure stability during uncertain times. Putin’s statement comes amid heightened anxieties over the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the potential for it to escalate.

The New START treaty, signed in 2010, limits both the U.S. and Russia to 1,550 deployed nuclear warheads and 700 strategic delivery systems. However, inspections to verify compliance ceased in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, raising concerns about the treaty’s effectiveness.

Putin urged the U.S. to take similar steps to maintain the treaty’s limits. “This measure will only be viable if the United States acts in a similar manner,” he said. Daryl G. Kimball, director of the Arms Control Association, welcomed this gesture. He noted that keeping the current limits could ease tensions and create room for future talks on broader disarmament.

As the world navigates through rising geopolitical tensions, it’s crucial to reflect on historical context. The New START treaty was a response to Cold War fears about nuclear proliferation. Similarly, today, experts worry that failing to address arms control could lead to a dangerous arms race, reminiscent of past conflicts.

In February 2023, Putin suspended Russia’s participation in the treaty, citing the need to protect national interests in light of perceived threats from the U.S. and NATO. While he asserted that Russia would continue to respect nuclear limits, the suspension raised alarms about renewed hostilities.

Tensions have escalated in recent months, with NATO allies accusing Russia of provocations, such as airspace violations. As a significant player on the global stage, Russia’s actions and decisions regarding nuclear agreements will profoundly impact international security and diplomatic dialogues.

To understand the broader implications, consider that since the signing of the New START treaty, global nuclear arsenals have not significantly declined. According to a 2021 report from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, the world’s nuclear stockpile remains above 13,000 warheads. This persistence underscores the ongoing relevance of treaties that promote arms control and dialogue.

In summary, with the New START treaty nearing expiration, the future of nuclear arms control remains uncertain. Whether the U.S. will reciprocate Putin’s gesture could set the tone for international relations in the coming years. As Daryl Kimball aptly noted, more nuclear weapons will not make anyone safer. Instead, dialogue and cooperation are essential for a secure future.



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