UN calls New START expiration a 'grave moment' and urges fresh arms-control talks
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Summary
The UN described the expiration of the New START treaty as a 'grave moment' that leaves the world without binding limits on the U.S. and Russian strategic arsenals, urged both states to return to the negotiating table, and called for a verifiable successor framework to reduce nuclear risks.
The United Nations said the expiration of the New START treaty "marks a grave moment in international peace and security," leaving the world, for the first time in more than half a century, without binding limits on the strategic arsenals of the Russian Federation and the United States. The spokesperson read the secretary-general’s statement warning that the risk of a nuclear weapon being used is the highest it has been in decades and calling this an opportunity "to reset and create an arms control regime fit for a rapidly evolving context."
The briefing emphasized that the secretary-general welcomes public statements by both presidents acknowledging the destabilizing impact of a renewed arms race and urged both sides to "return to the negotiating table without delay and to agree upon a successor framework that restores verifiable limits, reduces risks, and strengthens our common security." When asked about press reports of bilateral talks, the spokesperson said the UN is not involved in the negotiations but reiterated support for diplomatic engagement toward a new, verifiable agreement.