EU Responds to Putin's Decision to Suspend Russia's Participation in Nuclear Treaty

The EU believes that Russia should fulfill its obligations under the Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (START) and allow the United States to verify its nuclear arsenals. This was stated in a message from the EU's foreign service.

The document notes that the previously signed treaty strengthens strategic stability and mutual trust between the two major nuclear powers, the United States and Russia.

According to the statement, the suspension of the treaty "will disrupt the architecture of European security and significantly undermine arms control efforts." The EU emphasized that losing control over nuclear arsenals serves neither the interests of the signatory countries to the treaty nor any other country.

Brussels has called on Moscow to facilitate inspections and uphold the treaty.

It is noteworthy that Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a speech to the Federal Assembly, announced the suspension of Russia's participation in the Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty. He also ordered preparations for the potential resumption of nuclear testing.

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg commented on Putin's announcement, stating that such a decision by Russia would dismantle the entire architecture of arms control.