Amid growing concerns over the stability of international arms control, Russia has underscored the role of nuclear weapons as the sole barrier preventing a major global conflict. The Kremlin, through spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, highlighted the weakening global security structure following the expiration of the New START treaty between Russia and the United States. This treaty, which lapsed in February, had been instrumental in capping the number of deployed nuclear warheads for both nations.
Peskov emphasized that the absence of nuclear deterrence could potentially heighten the risk of broader conflicts. He also pointed out the possibility that future advancements in non-nuclear technologies might eventually match the destructive capabilities of nuclear weapons, posing new challenges to global security.
The end of New START has sparked worries about the onset of a new arms race among major world powers. Established in 2010, the treaty set a limit of 1,550 deployed nuclear warheads for both Russia and the United States and stood as the last significant agreement curbing their nuclear stockpiles.
Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump has advocated for a fresh arms control deal that would bring China into the fold, given its expanding nuclear arsenal. However, Beijing has dismissed invitations to participate in such negotiations. Concurrently, Moscow has suggested that any forthcoming agreement should also incorporate U.S. allies, particularly the United Kingdom and France, to ensure a more comprehensive approach to arms control.
