Putin's Bold Claims on Nuclear Arms Control

In a recent statement on September 22, Russian President Vladimir Putin declared that Russia stands ready to confront any threats, accusing Western powers of pursuing nuclear dominance. This assertion arrives as tensions escalate between NATO and Russia, especially following the recent downing of Russian drones over Poland and airspace breaches in Estonia.

The Fate of the New START Treaty

During a meeting of the Russian Security Council, Putin highlighted that the upcoming expiration of the New START Treaty in February 2026 signifies the end of the last agreement that attempted to limit the nuclear arsenals of both the U.S. and Russia. This treaty, originally signed in 2010, imposes mutual caps on the number of strategic nuclear warheads and launchers held by the two nations.

Russia's Conditional Extension Offer

Putin proposed that Russia is willing to continue adhering to the quantitative limits set by the treaty for another year, but only under the condition that the U.S. does the same. "We believe this step will be only possible if the U.S. reciprocates," he stated, leaving the door slightly ajar for dialogue.

Suspension Yet to Be a Full Withdrawal

Despite suspending its participation in the treaty back in February 2023, Russia maintains that it will uphold its quantitative limits, showcasing a level of restraint amid rising global tensions.

Trump's Stance on Nuclear Agreements

U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed intentions to uphold the limits outlined in the New START agreement following a recent meeting with Putin in Alaska on August 15. However, the future of nuclear arms negotiations remains uncertain as both nations eye each other warily.

A Heavy Warning

Putin further cautioned that Russia is equipped to respond militarily to any threats, emphasizing a readiness to utilize "military-technical means" in response to aggressions, signaling a potential shift in military strategy.

Nuclear Threats Since the Invasion of Ukraine

Since the beginning of its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Russia has frequently resorted to veiled and overt nuclear threats, escalating fears across the region and among NATO allies. The Kremlin's rhetoric has positioned its nuclear capabilities prominently in discussions of national security.

A Glimpse at Global Nuclear Arsenal

According to estimates from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), Russia boasts the world's largest nuclear arsenal, with 4,380 nuclear warheads compared to the United States' 3,708, excluding retired weapons. This stark contrast emphasizes the strategic significance of nuclear diplomacy between the two superpowers.