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New START Treaty Faces Expiration Amid Tensions

2/5/2026

31 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The New START treaty will expire on February 4, 2026, ending limits on U.S. and Russian arsenals.
Russia says it is no longer bound by treaty limits.
U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed indifference, stating, "If it expires, it expires."
Russian President Vladimir Putin has called for a one-year extension.
Verification mechanisms remain suspended.

History

Historical Context

The New START treaty, signed on April 8, 2010, aimed to reduce U.S. and Russian nuclear arsenals to 1,550 warheads each, succeeding the 1991 START I treaty. As the treaty approaches expiration in 2026, tensions have escalated, with Russia suspending participation and the U.S. showing indifference, raising fears of a renewed arms race reminiscent of the Cold War.

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Story summary

The New START treaty will expire on February 4, 2026, ending limits on U.S. and Russian arsenals.
Russia says it is no longer bound by treaty limits.
U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed indifference, stating, "If it expires, it expires."
Russian President Vladimir Putin has called for a one-year extension.
Verification mechanisms remain suspended.

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