During the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday, Russian diplomat Dmitry Glukhov addressed President Vladimir Putin’s mention of the possibility of Russia resuming nuclear tests. Glukhov stated that this mention should be understood within the context of Russia’s response to what they perceive as the destructive actions of the United States. He emphasized that it was a preventive signal to Washington and that Russia would only resort to such a step if the US initiates it first.
Glukhov’s comments were in response to accusations made by the US Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security Affairs Bonnie Jenkins, who interpreted Putin’s speech from February as a threat of renewed atomic testing.
In his speech, Putin had informed Russian lawmakers that Moscow had intelligence indicating that the US was preparing to test new nuclear warheads. As a result, he instructed Rosatom and the Russian Defense Ministry to be prepared for the resumption of tests if the US were to do so.
Additionally, during the same speech, Putin announced that Russia was suspending its participation in the New START nuclear arms control treaty. He accused the US of blocking inspections and using Ukraine as a proxy war against Russia. This decision came after several Ukrainian drones had attacked an airbase housing Russian strategic bombers.
Glukhov reminded the General Assembly that the US is the only country to have ever used nuclear weapons and leads the world in the number of nuclear tests. He also highlighted the US’s refusal to ratify the Comprehensive Nuclear Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT), further emphasizing the importance of understanding Russia’s stance within this context.
It is worth noting that Russia has both signed and ratified the CTBT, which was adopted by the UNGA in 1996. However, some Russian outlets had reported earlier in the month that Moscow was contemplating withdrawal from the treaty in order to be on par with the US.
The last nuclear test conducted by the Soviet Union took place in 1990, while the last US test occurred in 1992.
The issue of nuclear testing and arms control remains a contentious topic between Russia and the US, with each side expressing concerns about the actions and intentions of the other. Both countries possess significant nuclear arsenals, and their actions in this realm have global implications for international security.
As the debate continues, it is crucial for diplomatic channels to remain open and for dialogue to prioritize a peaceful resolution that ensures the safety and stability of the global community.
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