Russia Cites US Nuclear Stance as Reason for New START Treaty Non-Extension

According to the International Desk of Webangah News Agency, Russia‘s Permanent Representative to the UN Office in Geneva, Gennady Gatilov, stated that the New START treaty’s validity was not extended due to Washington’s stance, which included announcing its readiness to employ nuclear returnable capacity. Gatilov elaborated that while American officials have not officially spoken of a direct increase in nuclear warheads, they have emphasized their preparedness to swiftly deploy what is termed ‘returnable capacity’ and re-equip some of their aircraft for nuclear armament.

Previously, the U.S. Department of State issued a statement indicating that the United States would resume nuclear testing equally with Russia and China. These claims by the U.S. were made while Russia had long sought consultations regarding the extension of the New START treaty, but Washington consistently evaded such discussions, citing various pretexts.