NewsRussia’s Putin says ‘no big deal’ if US won’t extend nuclear warhead limitsRussian president reveals development of new strategic weapons amid stalled nuclear treaty talks with United States.
## Arms Control and Strategic Weapons Development
Arms Control and Strategic Weapons Development
President Vladimir Putin has announced that Russia is actively developing new strategic weapons, highlighting the ongoing arms race. Speaking at a summit in Tajikistan, Putin stated that the extension of warhead limits under the current nuclear arms treaty with the United States, which is set to expire next year, would not be critical for Moscow.
New START Treaty and Extension Proposals
Russia has expressed willingness to voluntarily extend the warhead limits as defined by the New START treaty, which expires in February. The United States has not yet formally agreed to this proposal. The treaty, effective since February 2011 and signed in 2010, limits each country to no more than 1,550 deployed nuclear warheads and 700 deployed missiles and bombers. It remains the last major arms control agreement between Moscow and Washington.
Putin indicated that the remaining months may suffice to decide on an extension, contingent on mutual goodwill. He emphasized that a lack of agreement would not significantly impact Russia, although it would be regrettable if no arms control framework remains between the two nations.
President Vladimir Putin has announced that Russia is actively developing new strategic weapons, highlighting the ongoing arms race.
Development of New-Generation Nuclear Weapons
Russia continues to develop and test new-generation nuclear weapons. Putin stated the readiness to negotiate if the process is deemed acceptable and beneficial by the United States. Absent such negotiations, he noted the lack of deterrence in strategic offensive weapons as a potential consequence.
Putin mentioned that unnamed countries might conduct nuclear tests, a practice only North Korea has engaged in this century. He noted that Russia would conduct its tests if others proceed, emphasizing the temptation to verify the effectiveness of long-used missile fuels. While simulations are currently employed, some experts advocate for repeat tests.
Putin concluded that, from a security standpoint, testing could be beneficial, but it would negatively impact efforts to curb the arms race. He supported extending the New START Treaty for at least a year as a positive step.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.