Putin proposes to Trump to extend the nuclear weapons treaty for one year

President of Russia, Putin, said on Monday that he is prepared to extend the latest arms control treaty between Moscow and Washington for one year, if US President Trump also takes the same measures. This treaty limits the number of nuclear weapons each side possesses.

The New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (START) between the United States and Russia limits the number of deployed strategic nuclear warheads and the number of missiles and bombers used to carry these warheads. The nuclear weapons treaty between the United States and Russia will expire on February 5, 2026.

With less than four months remaining until the deadline for the treaty, Russia's war in Ukraine has hindered discussions between the United States and Russia on renewing or amending the treaty.

However, US President Trump has expressed his willingness to reach new nuclear weapons control agreements with countries including China and Russia.

Today, at a meeting of the Russian Security Council, President Putin stated that in order to safeguard global nuclear non-proliferation interests and promote dialogue with Washington on the future of the treaty, he is willing to extend the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty for one year, provided that US President Trump is also willing to do so.

Putin said: "Russia is prepared to continue to abide by the core quantity limits of the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty for one year starting from February 5, 2026. After that, we will decide whether to maintain these voluntary, self-imposed restrictions based on an analysis of the situation."

Putin also added: "We believe this measure is feasible only if the United States takes similar actions and does not take measures that destroy or violate the existing balance of deterrence capabilities."

Source: rfi

Original: www.toutiao.com/article/1843988885758987/

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