Officials from the White House clarified that the United States does not intend to suspend information exchanges with Russia under New START. The comments came during a briefing where the administration explained the current stance on treaty compliance and transparency. The focus remained on ensuring Russia restores full participation in the agreed data exchanges, which include regular updates on strategic offensive arms and other verification measures outlined in the agreement.
According to the briefing, Washington believes Moscow has not fully met its obligations and has not consistently provided the information required by the treaty for biannual exchanges. The United States emphasized that continuing the exchange framework depends on Russia resuming complete and timely information sharing in line with the treaty terms and verification procedures. The administration suggested that any disruption in this data flow complicates efforts to verify strategic arms reductions and maintain mutual understanding of each side’s capabilities.
Earlier statements from the Pentagon indicated that Washington had formally requested the routine information exchanges from Russia on March 27, but those requests were not met. The Pentagon clarified that Russia did not provide the requested data under the START framework, which the United States views as a necessary element of treaty compliance and transparency in strategic arms reductions.
In response, the ministry noted that it would not transmit information to Moscow under START due to Western positions that Washington itself had chosen not to participate fully in the exchange. Officials from Moscow stressed that the decision effectively halts certain verification communications until there is a change in Washington’s approach toward the data-sharing obligations within the treaty.
Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister stated that there are no remaining contact points with the United States on the Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty. The official stressed that conversations about START could not proceed at this time, given the perceived suspension of the agreement from a formal perspective. The message highlighted a belief in the necessity of reestablishing verifiable channels before any renewed dialogue about START could occur. The overall tone pointed to a pause in practical cooperation under the treaty until both sides demonstrate a renewed commitment to the established information-sharing framework.