Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced Russia will abide by New START nuclear limits for one year after the treaty expires in February 2026, warning that its end would harm global stability.
The deal—signed by then-presidents Barack Obama and Dmitry Medvedev—limits each side to a cap of 1,550 warheads and 700 missiles and bombers.
The upcoming expiry of New START and lack of a follow-up deal have alarmed arms control advocates. Russia suspended inspections in 2023, citing U.S. and NATO hostility to its Ukraine invasion—but says it will still respect nuclear limits.
The Kremlin stresses the need to maintain some form of dialogue with Washington, despite their strained relationship.
