Russia has recently announced its decision to terminate the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (START) citing a lack of genuine interest from the United States in conducting discussions to extend the thing. The treaty, designed to limit the number of nuclear warheads and missiles harboured by both parties, has seemingly lost its relevance as the US also suspended the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Force Treaty with Russia. This significant move marks another step in the shifting geopolitical dynamics between these two powerhouses.
The New START: An Overview
Initiated and signed on April 8, 2010, in Prague by both Russia and the United States, the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty formally came into action on February 5, 2011. The treaty introduced limits on the number of nuclear warheads and missiles that could be held by each country. These regulations fostered a semblance of balance, thereby maintaining a status quo and reducing nuclear tensions.
The New START superseded the 2002 Strategic Offensive Reductions Treaty (SORT), which was consequently terminated when the new treaty took effect. The SORT was itself a replacement for the 1991 START I treaty, which expired in December 2009. Hence, the New START signified the continuous efforts undertaken by both nations to regulate the extent of their nuclear arms.
The Role of the United States
However, the recent decisions by the United States have cast a shadow over this long-standing agreement. The US government, expressing disinterest in extending discussions related to the New START, has caused concern for its international counterparts. Besides, the US’s choice of suspending the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Force Treaty with Russia signaled a significant shift in the country’s strategic policy concerning nuclear arms.
| Treaty | Signing Date | Entered into Force | Replaced |
|---|---|---|---|
| New START | April 8, 2010 | February 5, 2011 | SORT (2002) |
| SORT | May 24, 2002 | June 1, 2003 | START I(1991) |
| START I | July 31, 1991 | December 5, 1994 | N/A |
Implications of Russia’s Decision
Russia’s decision to abandon the New START does not bode well for global nuclear security. The power dynamics between these nations have historically been tense, and the absence of such regulatory treaties might escalate tensions. This development may possibly result in an arms race, pushing the world towards a more uncertain future.
The implications go beyond just these two nations. It also raises questions about the future of international cooperation on arms control. If such treaties are easily disregarded, then the trust needed to negotiate new agreements will remain elusive. The long-term implications of Russia’s decision still remain to be seen, but it certainly signals a shift in its strategic approach towards nuclear arms control.
