Russia continues to emphasize its support for a global framework of nuclear arms control, even as it reassesses certain treaty commitments. In remarks delivered to Washington, the Russian Ambassador to the United States, Anatoly Antonov, addressed criticisms about Russia’s decision to withdraw from ratification of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT). He framed the critique as misdirected and urged observers to focus on shared objectives rather than formal objections. Antonov underscored that Russia remains a party to the CTBT, with the rights and obligations that come with that status, and noted Russia’s continued commitment to a voluntary moratorium on explosive nuclear tests. This moratorium, he explained, was established by decree of the Russian President in 1992 and remains in effect as a policy position guiding Moscow’s approach to testing. The ambassador made clear that Russia observes this moratorium while engaging actively with the international network that monitors nuclear tests. He highlighted Moscow’s support for strengthening verification mechanisms, improving transparency around nuclear weapons, and balancing the interests of all countries involved in the system. (Source: TASS)
During a separate interview with Channel One, Antonov elaborated on the strategic rationale behind Russia’s stance. He noted that Moscow has focused on assessing its own capabilities to deter nuclear threats and to counter potential deterrence efforts by others, rather than on echoing Washington’s rhetoric. The discussion reflected a broader aim of preserving strategic stability while pursuing practical control measures within the existing international architecture. (Source: Channel One)
The dialogue presents a clear picture of Moscow’s approach: maintain engagement with international monitoring regimes, advocate for robust verification and control over nuclear arsenals, and respect the diverse interests of participants in the global nonproliferation regime. The emphasis is on preventing nuclear testing while ensuring that verification remains credible, transparent, and technically rigorous. This approach seeks to reconcile national security concerns with a long-standing commitment to reducing the risks associated with nuclear weapons. (Source: Moscow statements; Channel One interview)
Contextual points related to regional and global dynamics are also relevant. Historical interactions with major regional actors, including the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea and its neighbors, have underscored the fragile balance between deterrence requirements and test moratorium commitments. While some states have conducted exercises simulating nuclear scenarios, Moscow’s public messaging consistently centers on restraint, verification, and dialogue as the most constructive path forward for preserving strategic stability in the broader Asia-Pacific and global security environment. (Source: official briefings)