One Step Closer to a Nuclear-Free World

U.S-Russian pact of nuclear disarmament — A trustworthy “oath in Prague”?

The leaders of America and Russia have signed a new nuclear disarmament treaty in Prague, the place where, one year ago, Obama — the president of the United States — made a speech promoting “a world without nuclear weapons.” Both of these countries, which hold 95 percent of the world’s nuclear weapons, want to implement this “oath in Prague.”

This new treaty is becoming the follow up to the first Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (START I) that expired in December of last year.

At a news conference after the signing ceremony, President Obama expressed his feelings on the new treaty, stressing that “Today is an important milestone for nuclear security and non-proliferation, and for U.S.-Russia relations.” He then turned his attention to a world without nuclear weapons, stating “it’s one small step in a longer journey.” Russian President Medvedev made the assessment that this disarmament would “influence the national interest and balance of both countries.”

In the new treaty, the maximum amount of nuclear warheads that can be deployed in both countries is 1,550, which is a reduction of 30 percent from the maximum limit of 2,200 that was agreed to in the Moscow treaty (signed in 2002). The maximum limit for means of transport of things like missiles will be 800, which is a reduction by half of the START I limit. The treaty also included verification measures like the exchange of local inspection and experimental data. They must achieve these targets within seven years of the treaty coming into effect.

The next barrier is to ratify the treaty between the two countries via congress. It is necessary that two-thirds or more of the U.S Senate give its approval; therefore, President Obama will need to persuade those conservatives who strongly insist on maintaining nuclear force.

There is also speculation about America and Russia with regard to the reduction of nuclear weapons. Russia’s nuclear weapons are deteriorating and they don’t have the budget to update parts. So, even though America is reducing its nuclear weapons, because of their superior conventional weapons, they are maintaining equilibrium with Russia.

Nevertheless, if the two largest countries with nuclear weapons take the initiative and make an effort to reduce their nuclear warheads and means of transport, then it will have some persuasive power to prompt other nuclear states to do the same. Even Japan, “the only country to be atom-bombed,” is ready to accept the total abolition of nuclear weapons.

At the interview, both leaders expressed great concern about Iran continuing its uranium enrichment programs. The strengthening of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) lies in a common understanding between America and Russia, making it possible to accelerate movements to put sanctions on Iran.

Cause for concern lies in Russia harboring suspicion of America’s plans to advance its missile defense (MD). In order for the new treaty to go according to plan, heightened concern about missile defense must be replaced by hope for close diplomatic efforts between the two countries.

While America and Russia keep trying to disarm themselves, China is in a hurry to modernize its nuclear weapons. Previously, President Obama showed his concern for the “opacity” of China’s nuclear arms policy. Before long, it will be necessary to hold a nuclear disarmament conference involving China and other nuclear states regarding the America-Russia situation.