Russia has asserted that nuclear weapons serve as the sole deterrent preventing the world from heading into a major global conflict, amid growing concerns over the weakening state of international arms control. This statement comes in light of the expiration of the New START treaty between Russia and the United States, which had been a critical element in maintaining nuclear arms limitations.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov highlighted the fragility of the global security system following the treaty’s expiration in February. The New START agreement, originally signed in 2010, restricted both countries to a maximum of 1,550 deployed nuclear warheads. With its end, Peskov cautioned that the absence of nuclear deterrence increases the risk of a broader conflict and noted that future advancements in non-nuclear technologies might pose similar threats due to their potential destructive capabilities.
The dissolution of the New START treaty has sparked fears of a renewed arms race among global powers. As the last significant bilateral agreement regulating nuclear arsenals between the US and Russia, its collapse leaves a notable void in the framework of nuclear arms control. The situation has prompted discussions about the need for a new arms control agreement that could include other nations with growing nuclear capabilities.
US President Donald Trump has advocated for a new treaty that would also involve China, given its expanding nuclear arsenal. However, Beijing has declined to participate in such negotiations, complicating efforts to establish a comprehensive new framework. Meanwhile, Russia has suggested that any forthcoming agreement should additionally incorporate US allies like the UK and France to ensure a balanced approach to global arms control.