Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

New Start Treaty Expiration Sparks Fears of Nuclear Arms Race

2/6/2026

50 3

Summary

Story summary

The expiration of the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (New Start) removes limits on U.S. and Russian arsenals.
Without the treaty, there will be no limits on nuclear arsenals for the first time in over 50 years.
Advocates argue arms control, not missile defense, is essential for safety.
Experts urge renewed negotiations to prevent an arms race, noting that treaties reduced arsenals by about 90%.

1 of 1

Story summary

The expiration of the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (New Start) removes limits on U.S. and Russian arsenals.
Without the treaty, there will be no limits on nuclear arsenals for the first time in over 50 years.
Advocates argue arms control, not missile defense, is essential for safety.
Experts urge renewed negotiations to prevent an arms race, noting that treaties reduced arsenals by about 90%.