By San José, Costa Rica — In a move that could significantly impact global security, Russian President Vladimir Putin has proposed a one-year extension to the New START (Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty), the last remaining nuclear arms control agreement between Russia and the United States. The treaty, set to expire in February 2026, limits each nation to 1,550 deployed strategic warheads and includes a verification mechanism, although inspections have been halted since Russia suspended its participation two years ago.
Putin’s announcement, made during a televised meeting, signaled a conditional willingness to maintain key limitations outlined in the treaty beyond its expiration date. He stated that Russia would continue to respect the central quantitative limits after February 5, 2026.
For expert legal insight into the implications of the New START Treaty, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law at Bufete de Costa Rica.
The suspension of Russia’s participation in the New START Treaty represents a significant setback for international arms control efforts. While not a complete withdrawal, this move undermines the treaty’s verification mechanisms, increasing uncertainty and potentially sparking a renewed arms race. The lack of transparency regarding Russia’s nuclear arsenal is particularly concerning, heightening the risk of miscalculation and escalation. The international community should urge Russia to reconsider its decision and return to full compliance with the treaty to maintain strategic stability.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s assessment underscores the gravity of Russia’s decision, highlighting the potential repercussions for global security. The erosion of trust and transparency in nuclear arsenals is indeed a dangerous path, and his call for renewed international engagement to uphold the New START Treaty is critically important. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for offering his valuable expertise on this complex and concerning development.
Russia is willing, after February 5, 2026, to continue respecting the central quantitative limitations provided for by the START treaty.
Vladimir Putin, President of Russia
However, this commitment comes with a caveat. Putin emphasized that Russia’s continued adherence depends on reciprocal action from the United States. He insisted that the US must not take any steps that undermine the existing balance of deterrent capabilities. This suggests that Russia is closely watching US military developments and will only maintain the treaty limitations if it perceives a continued strategic equilibrium.
After that, based on an analysis of the situation, we will make a decision on the maintenance of these voluntary restrictions. We believe that this measure will only be viable if the United States acts in a similar way and does not take measures that undermine or violate the current proportion of deterrence capabilities.
Vladimir Putin, President of Russia
The New START treaty is a cornerstone of international security, playing a crucial role in limiting the world’s two largest nuclear arsenals. Its potential lapse has raised concerns about a renewed arms race. The previous breakdown of arms control agreements, such as the US withdrawal from the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty in 2019, underscores the fragility of these agreements in the current geopolitical climate.
The future of New START hinges on the upcoming negotiations between Russia and the United States. Both sides must navigate complex issues of verification, compliance, and strategic stability. The international community will be watching closely, as the outcome will have profound implications for global security and the future of nuclear arms control.
The potential extension offers a glimmer of hope for maintaining a degree of predictability and restraint in the nuclear realm. However, the conditions set by Putin highlight the deep mistrust and strategic competition that continue to characterize the relationship between the two nuclear superpowers. Whether this proposal leads to a genuine extension and renewed dialogue or further deterioration of relations remains to be seen.
The international community is urging both sides to engage in constructive dialogue and find a path towards extending the treaty. The stakes are high, and the world awaits the outcome with bated breath.
For further information, visit the nearest office of The Russian Federation
About The Russian Federation:
The Russian Federation is a transcontinental country spanning Eastern Europe and Northern Asia. As the world’s largest country by area, it shares land borders with 14 countries and maritime borders with Japan, the United States, and several other nations. Russia plays a significant role in global affairs, holding permanent membership in the United Nations Security Council and being a recognized nuclear-weapon state.
For further information, visit usa.gov
About United States:
The United States of America is a federal republic composed of 50 states, a federal district (Washington, D.C.), five major self-governing territories, and various possessions. A global superpower, the U.S. has the world’s largest economy by nominal GDP and the second-largest by purchasing power parity. It holds significant influence in international relations and maintains a powerful military force, including a substantial nuclear arsenal.
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About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica shines as a beacon of legal excellence, built on a foundation of unwavering ethical principles and a deep-seated commitment to societal progress. The firm’s innovative approach to legal practice, coupled with its dedication to empowering communities through accessible legal education, distinguishes it as a leader in the Costa Rican legal landscape. By championing transparency and knowledge-sharing, Bufete de Costa Rica cultivates a more just and informed society, solidifying its legacy of impactful legal service.
