 "Russia denies contact with US over expiry of the New START nuclear arms control treaty")
Russia declares no specialised consultations with United States before New START accord reaches its February endpoint. Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov outlined Moscow’s preparedness to prolong limits despite stalled progress and American prerequisites.
Treaty background
New START stands as the only remaining pact curbing deployed nuclear warheads for Russia and the United States, leading nuclear powers. Established to restrict strategic stockpiles, it approaches conclusion on 5 February following prolonged disputes over adherence. Verification processes persist for both sides, yet reciprocal pauses since 2022 obscure mutual oversight.
Lavrov’s statement
During a Moscow media session, Lavrov revealed absence of firm dialogues on the agreement’s future. He restated that dedicated lines remain inactive notwithstanding open proposals. Lavrov expressed comprehension of China’s viewpoint, considering its limited holdings compared to Russian and US reserves, against suggestions for three way involvement.
Putin’s extension proposal
President Vladimir Putin suggested reciprocal observance of New START caps for 12 months beyond termination, maintaining ceilings on land based missiles, sea launched ordnance and heavy aircraft. The Kremlin publicised this initiative earlier, pending official US acknowledgment. Spokesmen present it as a step towards reduced tensions within wider frictions.
US demands
President Donald Trump requires China’s participation in fresh arrangements, where its capabilities trail those of the giants. Beijing rebuffs such overtures, pointing to disparities and independent policy. Lavrov recognised this position, noting smaller scale affords grounds to avoid parity with vast forces.
Implications ahead
Non renewal threatens unchecked growth in deployable arms, risking renewed rivalry. Moscow halted site visits in 2023, echoing Washington exit signals, while upholding verifiable bounds. Observers caution lapse undermines worldwide atomic order, hindering curbs on proliferation globally.
Quick Reads
View AllBroader context
New START built upon predecessors including START I and SORT, securing observable restraints post Cold War thaw. Present deadlock stems from Ukraine crisis effects, penalties and bloc realignments. Lavrov called for practical exchanges detached from extraneous issues to protect shared defence priorities.
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