START Treaty Set to Expire on February 5, 2026

The New START Treaty was signed on April 8th, 2010 and serves as a crucial agreement between the US and Russia to reduce their strategic nuclear weapons. As the treaty approaches its expiry date of February 5th, 2026, experts are concerned about the consequences of losing this agreement, which has been managing nuclear stockpiles effectively since its inception. The treaty limits both countries to 1,550 strategic nuclear warheads deployed, 700 missiles and bomber aircraft deployed, and 800 missile launchers in total. It also contains provisions for comprehensive monitoring measures, including on-site inspection and regular data exchange. This structured approach has played a significant role in maintaining stability between the world's two largest nuclear powers. In February 2022, Russia suspended participation in the agreement due to Western tensions, particularly regarding US support for Ukraine, but both countries still adhere to the core numerical limits of the treaty. However, without verification and transparency measures, mutual trust has decreased. The impending expiry of New START has raised concerns among policy makers and analysts, as it could lead to a new arms race and further complicate global arms control if no new agreement is reached. China, not a party to the agreement, is also expected to increase its nuclear arsenal to around 600 weapons, further complicating the situation. If no new treaty is negotiated or extended, the landscape for disarmament will change significantly, removing the last framework for managing US and Russian nuclear arsenals and increasing the risk of mistakes and destabilization of international relations. In late September 2