Russia's permanent representative to the United Nations in Geneva expressed disappointment in the lack of progress on disarmament by the new U.S. administration. Gennady Gatilov stated Russia's willingness to cooperate but noted the absence of positive steps in this regard at the Conference on Disarmament in Geneva. The international forum has historically facilitated major arms limitation agreements, including nuclear non-proliferation deals.
Gatilov highlighted the importance of transitioning from rhetoric to action in U.S. policy. He acknowledged the anticipation surrounding the new administration's approach and emphasized the need for concrete steps given the rhetoric since January 20. While there is interest from both Trump and Putin in meeting, discussions on nuclear arms control and broader security matters with the U.S. have yet to resume.
The imminent expiration of the New START treaty in 2026 underscores the significance of maintaining the last remaining agreement on nuclear arms control between the two largest nuclear powers.