Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Kremlin Denies Nuclear Test Claims Amid Arms Control Talks

2/19/2026

35 8 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Kremlin denied U.S. allegations that Russia or China conducted nuclear tests, Dmitry Peskov said, "Neither Russia nor China has conducted any nuclear tests."
The denial follows U.S. claims China carried out a test in 2020.
The United States seeks a new arms control treaty including Russia and China after New START's expiration.
Experts are divided on expiration's implications, with some warning of a race and others deeming concerns overstated.

History

Historical Context

The New START Treaty, signed on April 8, 2010, between the United States and Russia, aimed to reduce deployed strategic nuclear warheads to 1,550 each, enhancing global security. Following the treaty's expiration in February 2026, concerns about a renewed arms race have emerged, particularly as Russia suspended its participation in February 2023, reflecting ongoing tensions in nuclear governance and arms control.

1 of 2

Story summary

The Kremlin denied U.S. allegations that Russia or China conducted nuclear tests, Dmitry Peskov said, "Neither Russia nor China has conducted any nuclear tests."
The denial follows U.S. claims China carried out a test in 2020.
The United States seeks a new arms control treaty including Russia and China after New START's expiration.
Experts are divided on expiration's implications, with some warning of a race and others deeming concerns overstated.

1 / 2