Termination of New START Treaty
On February 21, 2023, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced the suspension of Russia's participation in the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (New START), the last remaining nuclear arms control agreement between Russia and the United States. The treaty, which was signed in 2010, limits both countries to deploying no more than 1,550 deployed nuclear warheads and 700 deployed intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs), and heavy bombers equipped for nuclear armaments.
Putin's Justification
Putin's decision to suspend Russia's participation in New START was justified on several grounds. He cited concerns about the United States' support for Ukraine, which Moscow sees as a threat to its security. Putin also expressed dissatisfaction with the United States' refusal to consider Russia's security interests in the negotiations surrounding the treaty.
Specifically, Putin accused the United States of using Ukraine as a proxy for fighting a war against Russia. He also claimed that the United States had violated the spirit of the treaty by providing Ukraine with advanced weapons systems, which he argued could potentially be used to target Russia.
Implications for Nuclear Arms Control
The suspension of New START has sent shockwaves through the international community. It marks a significant setback for nuclear arms control and has raised concerns about the future of nuclear deterrence and stability.
The treaty's expiration in 2026 would have left the United States and Russia without any binding limits on their nuclear arsenals. The suspension of the treaty now raises the prospect of an unconstrained nuclear arms race between the two countries.
US Response
The United States has expressed disappointment and concern over Russia's decision to suspend its participation in New START. State Department spokesperson Ned Price called the move "deeply unfortunate and irresponsible" and said it "undermines the global non-proliferation architecture."
The United States has indicated that it remains committed to the treaty and will continue to comply with its provisions. However, it has also warned that it will "respond appropriately" if Russia violates the treaty's terms.
Consequences for Ukraine War
The suspension of New START is likely to have implications for the ongoing war in Ukraine. Russia's decision to withdraw from the treaty could be seen as a signal that it is willing to escalate the conflict and challenge the United States' position in the international order.
The United States has stated that it will not allow Russia to use the suspension of New START as an excuse to expand its nuclear arsenal. However, the move could make it more difficult to negotiate an end to the war and raises the risk of a nuclear confrontation.
Expert Analysis
Experts on nuclear arms control have expressed grave concern about the suspension of New START. They argue that the treaty has played a vital role in reducing nuclear risks and maintaining stability between the United States and Russia.
They also warn that the suspension of the treaty could have serious consequences for global security, as it could spark an arms race and increase the risk of nuclear accidents.
Conclusion
The suspension of New START is a major setback for nuclear arms control and has raised concerns about the future of nuclear deterrence and stability. It is unclear how the United States and Russia will respond to this development, but the potential consequences for both countries and for the world are significant.
