The Russian government stated that it will begin observing
restrictions on the deployment of its strategic nuclear arsenal only if the
United States adopts the same stance, in a scenario marked by the expiration of
the main bilateral arms control agreements between the two powers.
Russian authorities indicated that, despite the expiration
of the legal framework regulating the number of warheads, ballistic missiles,
and delivery systems, Moscow would be willing to voluntarily maintain the
previously established limits. However, they emphasized that this restraint
will depend strictly on Washington's reciprocity, warning that any unilateral
increase by the United States could provoke a corresponding response.
The agreement in question is New START, considered for years
the last major verification and transparency mechanism in nuclear matters
between the two countries. This treaty allowed for mutual inspections and
concrete limits on the number of deployed strategic weapons, with the aim of
reducing the risk of an arms race.
International security analysts warn that the disappearance
or weakening of these instruments increases global uncertainty, as it
eliminates formal channels of oversight and trust. Without clear rules and
control mechanisms, there are fears that both nations will enter into a new competition
to expand their military capabilities, which could further strain the strategic
balance.
In this context, the Russian stance is interpreted as a sign
of caution: maintaining restraint if cooperation exists, but reserving the
right to strengthen its arsenal if it perceives disadvantages. The evolution of
this relationship will be key to global nuclear stability in the coming years.