A statement from the US State Department noted that Russia continues to meet some START treaty conditions, while the Kremlin pressed that Moscow has already paused its participation. This update came from a briefing hosted by the presidential press secretary.
Peskov clarified that further comments from Russia’s Foreign Ministry are expected. He emphasized that detailing the situation remains the ministry’s responsibility, and he did not dispute that authority.
According to Peskov, the pause in participation is a consequence of a direct instruction from President Vladimir Putin. The pause involves Russia’s temporary halt in its obligations under the Treaty on the Reduction of Strategic Offensive Weapons as it currently stands.
Earlier, on February 28, Putin signed a law formalizing Russia’s suspension of its involvement in START. That legal act marks a clear shift in the country’s stance toward the treaty and its verification regimes.
Amid these developments, U.S. President Joe Biden indicated that Washington has not observed any move by Russia to resume participation in START, and he expressed confidence that a path to resolution could be found. In remarks about the suspension, the White House signaled readiness to pursue diplomatic and strategic channels to address concerns while maintaining national security priorities.
Observers note that the current pause adds complexity to arms control dialogues between Moscow and Washington. Analysts say the situation requires careful consideration of verification mechanisms, alliance commitments, and regional stability. The evolving stance by Moscow is likely to shape upcoming discussions with NATO partners and allied governments. Attribution: official briefings from the Kremlin and statements from the White House have been cited in contemporary coverage, with ongoing updates from both sides indicating a willingness to engage in talks despite divergent positions.