Key Facts
• On February 5, 2026, the US-Russia New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (New START) expired.
• Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed a one-year extension of New START’s key provisions.
• Former US President Donald Trump has not formally responded to Putin’s extension proposal.
• Trump advocates for a framework including China, complicating direct US-Russia talks.
• UN Secretary-General António Guterres warned on February 4 about the highest nuclear risk in decades.
• China’s Foreign Ministry expressed regret over the treaty’s expiration on February 5.
• China urged the US to resume strategic stability talks with Russia.
Summary
The New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty between the United States and Russia officially expired on February 5, 2026, raising concerns about a renewed arms race that could include China’s nuclear armament. Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed extending the treaty’s main terms by one year, but former US President Donald Trump, who supports a broader framework including China, has yet to respond. The United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres cautioned that the risk of nuclear weapon use is at its highest in decades, emphasizing the urgency of maintaining control. Meanwhile, China’s Foreign Ministry expressed regret over the treaty’s lapse and called on the US to restart dialogue with Russia to ensure strategic stability. This development signals potential challenges ahead for global nuclear arms control and international security.
