New START Treaty Expires, Ending US-Russia Nuclear Limits Amid Calls for New Agreement

The New START treaty, the last major nuclear arms control agreement between the United States and Russia, expired on February 5, ending binding limits on their strategic nuclear arsenals for the first time in over 50 years. UN Secretary-General António Guterres called this a "grave moment" for international peace and urged both nations to negotiate a successor framework promptly. Russia expressed regret but affirmed a responsible approach, while the US, under President Donald Trump, rejected extending the treaty and called for a new deal including China, which has declined to join talks. The treaty's lapse raises concerns about a renewed arms race amid global instability and growing nuclear capabilities, especially with China's expanding arsenal. NATO and other international actors have urged restraint and dialogue to maintain strategic stability.