Putin Warns of Nuclear Development as US-Russia New START Treaty Approaches Expiration

President Vladimir Putin stated on Friday that Russia is actively developing new strategic weapons and wouldn't consider it critical if the United States refused to extend the nuclear warhead limitations outlined in a treaty expiring next year.

Putin expressed that it would be unfortunate if nothing remained of the arms control framework between the two nations, which possess the world's largest nuclear arsenals by a significant margin.

During his address to journalists at a summit in Tajikistan, Putin acknowledged that an arms race is already underway.

Russia has expressed willingness to voluntarily extend the warhead limitations defined in the New START treaty, which expires in February, provided the United States agrees to do the same. Washington has not yet formally responded to this proposal.

"Will these few months provide sufficient time to make a decision on an extension? I believe it will be enough if there exists genuine willingness to extend these agreements. And if the Americans decide they don't need it, that's not a significant issue for us," Putin remarked.

He further mentioned that Russia continues to develop and test next-generation nuclear weapons.

"We're prepared to negotiate if it's deemed acceptable and beneficial for the Americans. If not, then we won't, though that would be regrettable, as nothing would remain regarding deterrence in strategic offensive weapons."

For the second time within a week, Putin alluded to the possibility that other countries, which he did not identify, might conduct nuclear tests – something only North Korea has done in this century. He indicated that Russia would respond with its own tests should this occur.

Security experts caution that a nuclear test by one nation would create a domino effect, prompting other nuclear powers to follow suit, further escalating already heightened geopolitical tensions.

"There's always a temptation to verify the effectiveness of fuel that has been stored in missiles for numerous years. While computer simulations are currently deemed sufficient by experts, some specialists believe additional physical tests are necessary," Putin explained.

"Some countries are contemplating this; according to my information, they're even making preparations, which is why I stated that if they proceed, we will respond in kind."

He noted that such testing might benefit security perspectives but would undermine efforts to curb the arms race.

"In this context, extending the New START Treaty for at least one year remains a positive approach."