Beijing: China has expressed deep regret over the expiration of the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (New START) between the United States and Russia, calling for a swift resumption of diplomatic talks to preserve global strategic stability. The treaty, which formally lapsed on February 5, marked the end of over fifty years of limits on the world’s two largest nuclear arsenals.
At a press briefing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian described the lapse as “regrettable” and emphasized that the international community is concerned about its potential negative impact on nuclear arms control and the broader global nuclear order. He urged Washington to engage constructively with Moscow, handle follow-up arrangements responsibly, and resume dialogue on strategic stability “as soon as possible,” echoing expectations voiced by the global community.
China reaffirmed its long-standing self-defense nuclear strategy and reiterated its commitment to a “no first use” policy. Lin stressed that China maintains its nuclear arsenal at the minimum level necessary for national security and that its forces are far smaller than those of the U.S. and Russia. For this reason, China will not participate in bilateral arms reduction negotiations at this stage.
Meanwhile, Russia signaled openness to security talks but warned it would defend its national interests and respond firmly to any new perceived threats. The White House indicated that President Donald Trump will determine the U.S. approach to nuclear arms control “on his own timeline,” leaving the future of multilateral nuclear agreements uncertain.
Analysts warn that the expiration of New START could create conditions for a renewed nuclear arms build-up, raising tensions and instability in the international security environment. China’s statement underscores growing global concern over the erosion of arms control frameworks and the urgent need for dialogue among nuclear powers to prevent escalation.
The lapse of New START has drawn attention worldwide as a critical test of diplomacy, signaling that efforts to maintain strategic balance and avert a new arms race must now be renewed with urgency and international cooperation.