Putin: US withdrawal from INF destroys one of the fundamental documents on arms control

Russian President Vladimir Putin. Photo: Getty

Affirming the United States' responsibility for withdrawing from the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty, the Kremlin leader also emphasized: "The responsibility lies entirely with the United States."

According to a statement posted on the Kremlin website, the Russian leader stressed that the US has refused to discuss international security issues in a comprehensive manner and has abandoned efforts over the years to reduce the risk of large-scale military conflicts, including the use of nuclear weapons. Moscow cannot ignore the current situation and cannot be satisfied with "empty declarations" about peace from the US and its allies.

President Putin instructed the Defense Ministry and the Foreign Ministry, along with the Russian Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR), to closely monitor further US moves in the development, production and deployment of short- and medium-range missiles. In the event of receiving accurate information that the US has completed the development and started production of the corresponding systems, Russia will be forced to embark on full-scale development of similar missiles.

According to Mr. Putin, doing this will require time, but at present Russia will effectively deal with the real threats that have emerged due to the US withdrawal from the INF using available means such as the “X-101”, “Kinzhal” and “Kalibr” missiles, as well as Zircon hypersonic systems.

However, Moscow's steps are only responsive, not unilateral. Russia will not deploy short- and medium-range missiles in areas where the US does not deploy similar missiles.

Regardless of what happened, the Russian leader still expects the conscience and sense of responsibility of the US and its allies towards their people, as well as the world community.

According to Mr. Putin, the US actions to cancel the INF will certainly lead to the loss of value and shake the entire current global security structure, including the Strategic Offensive Arms Reduction Treaty (START) and the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). Such a scenario also means the resumption of a new uncontrolled arms race.

In order to avoid chaos without any rules, restrictions and laws, it is necessary to once again consider all possible consequences and start a serious dialogue in a clear and substantive manner. President Putin believes that it is necessary to quickly resume full-fledged negotiations on ensuring strategic stability and security. Russia is ready for such negotiations.