Russia has declared it will respond "in kind" if the U.S. resumes nuclear testing, escalating global security concerns as the New START treaty—the last major nuclear arms control pact between the two powers—nears its 2026 expiration. Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov confirmed the stance on Monday, emphasizing Washington’s silence on Russia’s proposal to maintain treaty limits post-expiration.
The New START treaty, signed in 2010 and extended in 2021, caps deployed nuclear warheads at 1,550 for both nations. While Russia offered to honor these limits for one additional year if the U.S. refrains from destabilizing actions, no agreement has been reached. 🔥
Former U.S. President Donald Trump previously hinted at nuclear tests to "verify weapon safety," a move criticized by Moscow. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated Russia is "assessing" recent U.S. rhetoric but warned of "corresponding actions" if tests proceed.
With trust eroding and diplomacy stalled, experts warn the world is entering its most precarious nuclear standoff since the Cold War. Will dialogue prevail, or are we drifting toward a new arms race? 💣
