The possibility of a global conflict has been averted thus far, largely due to the presence of nuclear weapons, according to Russia. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov emphasized that these arms remain the sole deterrent against major warfare as the global security landscape faces challenges, particularly after the lapse of the New START treaty between Russia and the United States. This pact, which expired in February, had been instrumental in capping the number of deployed nuclear warheads that the two countries could possess.
Peskov issued a cautionary note regarding the potential for increased risks of broader conflicts without the stabilizing effect of nuclear deterrence. He further highlighted that advancements in non-nuclear technologies might soon match the destructive capacity of nuclear weapons, thereby reshaping the threat landscape.
The dissolution of the New START treaty has fueled apprehensions about the onset of a new arms race among global powers. Originally signed in 2010, this treaty was significant as it limited both Russia and the United States to 1,550 deployed nuclear warheads each, marking it as the last major accord restraining their nuclear stockpiles.
Amid these developments, former US President Donald Trump advocated for a fresh arms control treaty that would also encompass China, in light of its burgeoning nuclear capabilities. However, Beijing has dismissed the notion of joining such discussions. Meanwhile, Moscow contends that any forthcoming agreement should also incorporate US allies like the United Kingdom and France, reflecting a broader scope of international participation.