Key Facts
• April 4, 2025: Russia ends freeze on ground-launched intermediate-range missiles.
• 2019: INF Treaty between U.S. and Russia expired, leading to voluntary freeze by Russia.
• Russia accuses U.S. and allies of deploying missiles in Europe and Asia.
• Russia used new intermediate-range missiles in Ukraine in 2024, effectively ending the freeze.
• Tensions rise as U.S. criticism of Russia increases under President Trump.
• Russia declares it will no longer adhere to self-imposed restrictions.
• Statement claims U.S. actions create new threats requiring countermeasures.
Summary
Russia announced the end of its voluntary freeze on deploying ground-launched intermediate-range missiles, citing a lack of reciprocal action from the U.S. and its allies. This decision follows the 2019 expiration of the INF Treaty, which previously banned such weapons. Despite the freeze, Russia reportedly used new intermediate-range missiles during its 2024 invasion of Ukraine. The move signals escalating tensions between the U.S. and Russia, with Moscow criticizing U.S. missile deployments in Europe and Asia. Russia’s Foreign Ministry stated it would no longer adhere to self-imposed restrictions, citing the need to counter new threats. The development raises concerns about heightened geopolitical instability.
