politics
February 6, 2026
US and Russia negotiating New START deal
Moscow and Washington discussed options for observing the New Start Treaty beyond its expiration date in Abu Dhabi, Axios has said
TL;DR
- Moscow and Washington are negotiating to continue the New START nuclear reduction treaty.
- The treaty officially expired on February 5.
- Signed in 2010, it caps strategic nuclear warheads and launchers and includes monitoring.
- US officials discussed the issue with the Russian delegation, agreeing to operate in good faith and discuss updates.
- One source claims an agreement to observe treaty terms for at least six months during ongoing talks.
- Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated Moscow suggested a one-year extension, which he claims remained unanswered.
- The UN called the expiration a grave moment for international peace and security, with the Secretary-General warning of the highest risk of nuclear weapon use in decades.
- Russian President Vladimir Putin had previously proposed a one-year extension to US President Donald Trump, who desired a 'better' agreement including China.
- China considers joining talks for a new treaty 'pointless' due to incompatible nuclear arsenals.