Background on Vladimir Putin and the New START Treaty
Vladimir Putin, the President of Russia, has expressed his willingness to extend the New START treaty if the United States reciprocates and avoids actions that undermine or violate the current arms balance. The New START, signed in 2010 by then-US President Barack Obama and Russian President Dimitri Medvedev, aims to reduce and control strategic nuclear weapons between the former Cold War powers.
Russia’s Current Stance on the Treaty
In February 2023, Putin suspended Russia’s participation in the New START treaty. However, Russia has not fully withdrawn from it, and the current validity period ends in February 2026. Putin proposed a one-year extension during a meeting with members of the Security Council, urging official institutions to closely monitor any potential actions by the United States, particularly regarding offensive strategic weapons arsenals.
Concerns Regarding US Defense Plans
Putin emphasized the significance of the 2010 agreement between the US and Russia, stating that Moscow’s recent suspension is due to what he considers “extremely hostile” policies by the Joe Biden administration. Despite this, current US President Donald Trump has sought to build bridges with Russia, even hosting Putin in Alaska for a bilateral summit amidst Russia’s invasion of Ukraine since February 2022.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the New START treaty? The New START (New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty) is a 2010 agreement between the United States and Russia to reduce and control strategic nuclear weapons.
- Why did Putin suspend Russia’s participation in the treaty? Putin cited the “extremely hostile” policies of the Joe Biden administration as the reason for suspending Russia’s participation in the New START treaty.
- What concerns Putin about US defense plans? Putin is wary of the United States’ plans to strengthen its missile defense systems, including potential deployments in space.
- What is the current status of the New START treaty? Although Russia suspended its participation in February 2023, the treaty remains valid until February 2026. Putin proposed a one-year extension, urging close monitoring of US actions regarding offensive strategic weapons arsenals.
