The Kremlin has underscored the critical role of nuclear weapons as the primary safeguard against the escalation of global conflict, amid rising concerns about the state of international arms control. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov emphasized that with the expiration of the New START treaty between Russia and the United States, the global security framework is increasingly fragile. This treaty, which came to an end in February, was instrumental in capping the number of deployed nuclear warheads for both nations.
Peskov’s remarks highlight the risks associated with the absence of nuclear deterrence, suggesting that without it, the probability of broader conflicts could intensify. He further noted that emerging non-nuclear technologies might attain a level of destructiveness comparable to that of nuclear weapons, potentially complicating future arms control efforts.
The dissolution of the New START treaty has sparked fears of a renewed arms race among major global powers. Established in 2010, the treaty was a cornerstone in the efforts to limit the nuclear arsenals of Russia and the United States, restricting each to 1,550 deployed nuclear warheads. Its collapse leaves a significant void in the framework of international arms limitation agreements.
In response to these developments, former US President Donald Trump advocated for the creation of a new arms control treaty that would also incorporate China. However, Beijing has consistently refused to participate in such negotiations. Meanwhile, Moscow has asserted that any forthcoming agreement should not only include China but also account for the nuclear capabilities of US allies such as the United Kingdom and France.