Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov rejected the US request to extend the New Start nuclear arms control treaty.
The US and Russia have signed an agreement called New Start on the control of nuclear weapons, but Russia is refusing to extend the agreement based on reservations.
According to the report, the United States wants to extend the New Start agreement in any case so that the Trump government can get a large number of public support in the upcoming elections, but the Moscow government rejected the American request to extend the agreement.
Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said that the extension of the agreement is unacceptable, there are restrictions on the US stock of nuclear weapons and we do not accept their position.
In recent days, US negotiator Michelle Billings Lee claimed that Russia is ready to extend the agreement and we want the Moscow government to be ready to limit its nuclear weapons.
In response to this statement, the Russian Deputy Foreign Minister severely criticized the Trump administration and said that we reject agreements and compromises related to the American elections.
It should be noted that in 2010, the New Start agreement was signed between the US and Russia under which both countries agreed to reduce the number of their strategic nuclear weapons from 1550 to a maximum of 700.
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In what ways does Russia believe rejecting the New START extension could contribute to a more balanced approach to nuclear arms control?
**Interview with Sergei Ryabkov, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister, on New START Treaty Extension**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Mr. Ryabkov. Recently, the United States proposed an extension of the New START nuclear arms control treaty, but you rejected this request. Can you explain the reasons for this decision?
**Sergei Ryabkov:** Thank you for having me. The decision to reject the extension of New START is based on several crucial factors. Firstly, the current terms of the treaty impose unacceptable restrictions on our strategic capabilities. We believe that any extension should come with mutual understanding and respect for each country’s security needs, which the U.S. has not provided.
**Interviewer:** There have been claims from U.S. negotiator Michelle Billings Lee indicating that Russia might be open to extending the agreement. How do you respond to that?
**Sergei Ryabkov:** Those claims do not reflect the reality of our position. We are committed to maintaining a robust stance on nuclear deterrence and cannot accept compromises that are influenced by the political climate in the United States, particularly with the upcoming elections in mind. Our security interests must remain the priority.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned that the U.S. stockpile reductions are a concern. Can you elaborate on what specific restrictions you find unacceptable?
**Sergei Ryabkov:** The current framework of New START does not adequately address the disparities in nuclear arsenals and fails to promote genuine strategic parity. We need a comprehensive dialog that includes all aspects of our nuclear forces, rather than just a focus on numerical limits.
**Interviewer:** Some critics argue that rejecting an extension could lead to a renewed arms race. What is your perspective on this?
**Sergei Ryabkov:** This is a misconception. Rejecting the extension of New START does not automatically lead to an arms race. Instead, it is an opportunity for us to seek a more balanced and equitable approach to nuclear arms control. Engagement should be based on mutual interests rather than political expediency.
**Interviewer:** As discussions continue, what would you like to see from the U.S. to reconsider their position?
**Sergei Ryabkov:** We require a serious commitment from the U.S. to engage in negotiations that acknowledge our security concerns and a willingness to explore a new framework that includes all nuclear weapons, not just those covered by New START.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Mr. Ryabkov. Your insights are invaluable as the global community navigates these complex issues surrounding nuclear arms control.
**Debate Prompt for Readers:** Given the current geopolitical climate, do you think it’s wise for Russia to reject the extension of the New START treaty? What implications could this have for global security and relations between nuclear powers? Share your thoughts!