Peskov Lists Conditions for Dialogue with the U.S. on New Agreement

Russia will initiate dialogue with the U.S. on a strategic offensive arms treaty (START) if Washington provides constructive responses, stated Dmitry Peskov, press secretary to the President of Russia.

Peskov previously mentioned that Russia's 'New START' initiative has gone unanswered. 'If there are any constructive responses, of course, we will start the dialogue,' Peskov said in an interview with Pavel Zarubin of 'Russia 1', commenting on the possibility that the United States might, for example, respond to Russia's 'New START' proposal tomorrow.

The deadline for the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (New START) expires this Thursday. Earlier, Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that Russia is prepared to continue adhering to the treaty's limitations for one additional year after its deadline. He explained that compliance with the New START limitations will be effective if the United States also responds reciprocally.

According to several media reports, U.S. President Donald Trump referred to the Russian leader's 'New START' proposal as a good idea.