Russia: Rapid Nuclear Disarmament Unrealistic Without Considering Security Interests

Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov on Wednesday described calls for rapid nuclear disarmament as “completely unrealistic” if they ignore the current military-political situation and the security interests of nuclear-armed states.

Speaking at a meeting titled “Fundamentals of the Russian Federation’s Policy in the Field of Nuclear Non-Proliferation,” Ryabkov stressed the need for any nuclear disarmament initiative to preserve balance and mutual security. He warned that if the United States rejects Russia’s proposal regarding the New START treaty, it could create a strategic vacuum and increase the risk of nuclear escalation.

Ryabkov also underscored that Russia must have confidence in the stability of Washington’s actions and described President Vladimir Putin’s New START proposal as a limited, time-sensitive offer aimed at maintaining dialogue on arms control.