Read also: The key treaty between the US and Russia expires. Kremlin spokesman “expresses regret”
The New START Treaty has been in force since 2011.
The New START Agreement was in force on February 5, 2011. It set the maximum number of deployed nuclear warheads at 1,000. 550 pieces for each side. It was a key element of nuclear weapons control between the two largest nuclear powers.
Read also: The world's last nuclear “fuse” is expiring. Experts warn. “This issue is escaping Poland”
New START Treaty – Russia's proposal rejected
Last year, US President Donald Trump rejected the official proposal of Russian leader Vladimir Putin. Moscow suggested voluntary compliance with the treaty limits for another year without a formal extension of the agreement. The American administration did not agree to such a solution.
Read also: The Pope appeals regarding the “nuclear” treaty. “We must urgently replace the logic of fear”
Russia, USA and China in the nuclear race
The end of the treaty raises fears of a trilateral nuclear race involving Russia, the United States and China. Beijing has a much smaller nuclear arsenal than Moscow and Washington, but it is intensively developing its nuclear capabilities. Analysts emphasize that Russia may seek to avoid a costly arms race in a situation where its budget bears the costs of the war against Ukraine.
