Putin Notifies Xi Of New START Status As Trump Ready To Let Go Of Nuclear Arms Control With Russia

President Putin informed Chinese President Xi Jinping that the New START nuclear treaty with the United States is nearing collapse. The treaty is set to expire, and Russia has not yet received an official response from Washington regarding its proposal to extend key quantitative limits. Russia stated it remains open to negotiated ways to ensure strategic stability and will act responsibly based on a thorough analysis of the security situation. Former President Trump had previously signaled a desire to involve China in a broader arms control deal. Reports suggest the Trump administration is preparing to let go of arms control with Russia. This potential dissolution occurs during a tense period, with Russia and China expanding their arsenals and Russia threatening nuclear use in Ukraine. The Defense Department has held internal meetings to prepare for a post-New START world. Experts warn of increased nuclear warhead deployment on missiles if an understanding isn't reached soon. Russia has reiterated its willingness to extend the treaty for a year to allow for more robust negotiations. Dmitry Medvedev confirmed Russia's offer remains on the table and that a U.S. response might come only after the treaty's expiry. A White House official stated the President would decide the path forward on nuclear arms control on his own timeline. The New START treaty, signed in 2010, limits deployed strategic warheads and delivery systems and includes a mutual inspection regimen to lower the risk of misinterpretation.