Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov stated on Saturday that Russia’s decision to withdraw from the last remaining nuclear arms control treaty with the United States is “unshakable.” However, he also indicated that Moscow could be open to a return if Washington changes its policy towards Russia. Ryabkov’s remarks were reported by Russian state newswire Ria Novosti.
Ryabkov emphasized, “Our decision to suspend the START Treaty is unshakable. Our condition for the treaty’s full reinstatement is the United States abandoning its fundamentally hostile policy towards Russia.”
In February, ahead of the one-year anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced the Kremlin’s suspension of participation in the New START Treaty. This treaty, which took effect in 2011, imposes limits on the number of intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) and nuclear warheads that the US and Russia can deploy.
On Friday, US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan expressed willingness on behalf of Washington to discuss a new framework for nuclear arms control “without conditions.” This statement came a day after the US Department of State announced the implementation of “countermeasures” in response to Russia’s “ongoing violations” of the treaty.
Ryabkov clarified on Saturday that the US countermeasures and the call for dialogue from Washington do not alter Russia’s position in any way.
The divergence between Russia and the US regarding the nuclear arms control treaty highlights the ongoing tensions between the two countries. Russia’s firm stance on the matter underscores the significance of changes in US policy towards Russia as a potential catalyst for a reconsideration of the treaty.
