Russia Refuses to Extend New START Treaty Due to US Stance

Moscow (ANTARA) - Russia stated that the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (New START) was not extended because of the United States’ stance, after Washington declared itself ready to activate its reserve nuclear capability.

The statement was made by Russia’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Geneva, Gennady Gatilov, in an interview with RIA Novosti on Saturday.

“In February this year, the New START Treaty was not extended because of Washington’s stance,” Gatilov said.

According to him, the United States ignored Russia’s proposals to maintain self-restraint and stability in the strategic sphere.

Instead, Washington declared it now has “freedom of action” and can act from a position of greater strength.

Gatilov said the United States has not officially discussed increasing the number of nuclear warheads.

However, according to him, Washington has confirmed its readiness to promptly activate what is referred to as reserve nuclear capacity (breakaway potential).

“They have confirmed their readiness to activate reserve nuclear capacity,” Gatilov said.

He added that the United States is also prepared to modify some of its aircraft so they can carry nuclear weapons.

In addition, Gatilov again accused the United States of unlawfully excluding dozens of launch vehicles from the scope of the New START Treaty.

He said the issue has long been a concern for Russia in discussions on the implementation of the arms control agreement.