Story perspectives

Russia Maintains New START Limits Amid Rising Tensions

2/11/2026

Summary

Lavrov Addresses Arms Race

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov reaffirmed that Russia will adhere to the expired New START limits, contingent on U.S. compliance.
Lavrov said Moscow is not rushing to develop new weapons and expects U.S. compliance.
The expiration of the treaty has raised fears of a new arms race.
Tensions rise as the United States weighs resuming nuclear tests, with Russia signaling it may follow suit.

Summary

Trump Advocates New Treaty

The expiration of the New START treaty has removed limits on U.S. and Russian arsenals, raising concerns about an arms race.
Experts say the United States and Russia currently lack the capacity for rapid expansion of their nuclear forces.
U.S. President Donald Trump advocates a new treaty that includes China.
Beijing has rejected the idea.
Analysts warn that without arms control, both countries may adopt secretive nuclear strategies, increasing distrust.

History

Historical Context

The New START treaty, signed on April 8, 2010, limited the U.S. and Russia to 1,550 deployed nuclear warheads, aiming to enhance global security. However, its expiration in February 2026 raised concerns about renewed nuclear competition. The Trump administration's proposal to include China in future negotiations was rejected, leaving both nations vulnerable to secretive nuclear strategies and escalating tensions.

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Lavrov Addresses Arms Race

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov reaffirmed that Russia will adhere to the expired New START limits, contingent on U.S. compliance.
Lavrov said Moscow is not rushing to develop new weapons and expects U.S. compliance.
The expiration of the treaty has raised fears of a new arms race.
Tensions rise as the United States weighs resuming nuclear tests, with Russia signaling it may follow suit.

1 / 3