Tajikistan: Russian President Vladimir Putin has downplayed the potential impact on Moscow if the United States chooses not to extend the New START nuclear arms control treaty, describing such a scenario as “no big deal” for Russia. Speaking at a regional summit in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, Putin stressed that while the potential collapse of the arms control framework would be regrettable, Russia is prepared to maintain its strategic nuclear capabilities independently.
Putin emphasized that Russia is actively developing and testing next-generation nuclear weapons, signaling the country’s commitment to preserving its deterrence power regardless of U.S. decisions. “If the Americans decide they don’t need it, that’s not a big deal for us,” he remarked, underlining Moscow’s confidence in its military preparedness.
The New START treaty, first signed in 2010 and extended in 2021, is the last major arms control agreement between the U.S. and Russia, two nations that collectively hold approximately 87% of the world’s nuclear arsenal. The treaty imposes strict limits on deployed strategic nuclear warheads and delivery systems, forming the backbone of bilateral arms control.
While Putin expressed a willingness to consider a one-year extension if the U.S. reciprocates, he acknowledged that without an agreement, the current arms control regime would effectively dissolve. The Russian leader warned that a breakdown in the treaty could heighten global risks, including the possibility of a renewed nuclear arms race.
Highlighting this concern, Putin suggested that Russia might resume nuclear testing if other countries engage in similar activities. “If other countries conduct nuclear tests, we will also conduct them,” he said, signaling Moscow’s readiness to respond to perceived threats to its strategic position.
Despite his firm statements, Putin left the door open for dialogue, noting that negotiations could still take place if the United States demonstrates goodwill. He, however, cautioned that the absence of constructive engagement would be detrimental to global strategic stability, leaving the world’s nuclear balance increasingly uncertain.
As the February 2026 expiration date of the New START treaty approaches, both nations face mounting internal and international pressures that could shape their decisions. Analysts warn that failure to extend or replace the treaty could trigger heightened tensions between the two nuclear superpowers, with far-reaching consequences for global security.
The unfolding situation underscores the fragility of modern arms control and the critical importance of sustained dialogue to prevent escalation and maintain strategic stability in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape.