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US Holds Nuclear Talks with Russia, China Declines Participation

2/23/2026

46 9 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The United States is in Geneva holding talks with Russian and Chinese delegations on nuclear arms control after the New START treaty expired on February 5, 2026.
A senior U.S. official confirmed meetings with Russia and said the United States plans to meet with China to pursue a broader multilateral treaty.
China has rejected participation, asserting its nuclear arsenal is not comparable to the United States’ and Russia’s.

History

Historical Context

The New START treaty, signed on April 8, 2010, aimed to reduce U.S. and Russian nuclear arsenals, limiting them to 1,550 warheads. As it expires on February 5, 2026, discussions on a new treaty are complicated by China's refusal to engage and Russia's insistence on including the UK and France. The outcome will significantly impact global nuclear security dynamics.

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Story summary

The United States is in Geneva holding talks with Russian and Chinese delegations on nuclear arms control after the New START treaty expired on February 5, 2026.
A senior U.S. official confirmed meetings with Russia and said the United States plans to meet with China to pursue a broader multilateral treaty.
China has rejected participation, asserting its nuclear arsenal is not comparable to the United States’ and Russia’s.

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