Experts talk about the consequences of the US withdrawal from the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty with Russia

Russia's Iskander missile system fires. Photo: Sputnik.

This decision could lead to a new arms race, involving other countries besides Russia and the United States, according to Zhao Tong, a fellow at the Carnegie-Tsinghua Center for World Politics.

"This is a serious political mistake by the Trump administration, a decision that has seriously weakened the current arms control regime, which has existed in a faltering manner since its inception," the expert said.

This step, he said, could lead to other countries becoming more interested in developing and deploying medium- and short-range missiles, as well as engaging in the growing arms race between major powers.

Commenting on the reasons behind the US decision, Zhao Tong noted that this is happening against the backdrop of a variety of factors, including suspicion of Russia and concerns about China.

"There are disagreements within US political circles about how to eliminate potential threats from China, but it is clear that some officials want the US to have the ability to develop and deploy medium- and short-range missiles," said Zhao Tong.

All leading military powers, including China, must firmly uphold the principles of collective security, and address issues in the security field through arms control, he added.