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What does the expiry of the New START treaty mean for global nuclear security?
The expiry of the New START treaty removes formal limits on the number of deployed nuclear warheads for the US and Russia. While both countries have expressed a commitment to maintaining existing caps for now, the lack of verification measures raises concerns about a potential increase in nuclear arsenals and reduced transparency, which could destabilize global security.
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Why did the US decline Russia's offer to extend the New START treaty?
The US declined Russia's one-year extension offer because it seeks a new, broader treaty that includes China, which refuses to join. US officials believe that a new agreement should address the emerging nuclear capabilities of other powers and include updated verification measures, rather than simply extending the existing treaty.
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How does China's stance impact future arms control agreements?
China's refusal to join the current arms control framework complicates efforts to negotiate new treaties. As China rapidly expands its nuclear arsenal, many experts warn that without including China, any new agreement may be incomplete, potentially fueling an arms race among multiple nations.
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Are we heading towards a new nuclear arms race?
There are growing fears that without the constraints of the New START treaty, the US and Russia might increase their nuclear stockpiles. Additionally, China's expanding arsenal adds to the risk of a new arms race, especially if diplomatic efforts to establish new controls stall or fail.
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What are the risks of losing verification measures like on-site inspections?
Verification measures such as on-site inspections are crucial for transparency and trust among nuclear powers. Their suspension since 2020 means that both the US and Russia could potentially increase their arsenals without detection, raising the risk of miscalculations and escalating tensions.
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What can be done to prevent a new nuclear arms race?
To prevent a new arms race, diplomatic efforts must focus on establishing new treaties that include all major nuclear powers, especially China. Reinforcing verification measures and building mutual trust are essential steps toward maintaining strategic stability and global security.