Putin Offers One-Year Extension on Nuclear Treaty, Awaits U.S. Response
WASHINGTON/MOSCOW – Russian President Vladimir Putin has proposed keeping limits on nuclear weapons for one year beyond the expiration of the landmark New START treaty in 2026, calling it a step toward preventing an arms race.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said the offer sounded “pretty good,” but stressed that President Donald Trump would respond directly.
The New START treaty, signed in 2010, is the last major nuclear arms pact between Washington and Moscow. It caps each side at 1,550 deployed strategic warheads and 700 delivery systems, including missiles, bombers, and submarines. The pact was extended once, in 2021, by Putin and then-President Joe Biden.
Putin announced his latest proposal during a Security Council meeting, saying Russia was ready to observe the limits for one year after the February 5, 2026, expiration. “Subsequently, based on an analysis of the situation, we will decide on whether to maintain these voluntary, self-imposed restrictions,” he said.
The move comes as Kyiv pushes Trump to toughen sanctions on Moscow and as pressure mounts on Putin to end the war in Ukraine.
Arms Race Fears
Experts warn that without limits, the world’s two largest nuclear powers could escalate their arsenals. Putin argued that his proposal served global non-proliferation goals but warned it would only stand if the U.S. refrains from actions that upset the nuclear balance.
Russia has previously tied arms control talks to broader improvements in relations, but Putin’s statement signals a shift. Konstantin Kosachyov, a senior Russian senator, said the message was clear: “I hope this signal will be heard and correctly interpreted.”
Talks Still Stalled
So far, no negotiations have begun to replace or overhaul the treaty. Trump has expressed interest in a new agreement that could also involve China, an idea Beijing has rejected.
Arms Control Association director Daryl Kimball called Putin’s move “a positive and welcome step,” urging Washington to respond. He said both leaders have an opportunity to reduce “the most immediate existential security threat facing the world.”
Still, Putin warned Moscow would closely watch U.S. missile defense plans, including proposals for space-based interceptors. “The practical implementation of such destabilising actions could nullify our efforts,” he said. “We will respond accordingly.”
Mutib Khalid is a skilled content writer and digital marketer with a knack for crafting compelling narratives and optimizing digital strategies. Excel in creating engaging content that drives results and enhances online presence. Passionate about blending creativity with data-driven approaches, Mutib Khalid helps brands connect with their audience and achieve their goals.