United States and Russia Cooperation in Strategic Arms Reduction and Nonproliferation
Abstract
The bilateral relationship between the United States and Russia is critical to the world. Although the relationship has been strained over the years, there are shared interests where the two nations can engage in strategic cooperation. As the principle nuclear powers, Russia and the United States must continue to engage diplomatically, while finding ways to cooperate in areas of shared interest to build a better foundation of trust and security for the world without compromising their national interests. First, cooperation can begin with reduction and nonproliferation of nuclear weapons with a focused effort on renewing the next phase of the Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (START). Second, successful bilateral agreements can open doors to bring other nuclear powers into the discussions, with a concerted effort to bring China, Great Britain, and France into multilateral treaties for reduction and nonproliferation mutually beneficial for all nations. Third, the United States and Russia can work together on nuclear energy with foreign countries, providing sustainable clean energy and ensuring nonproliferation of nuclear capabilities. Strategic arms reduction negotiations have always been a platform for formal communication between Russia and the United States. Arms control negotiations are important to Russia because they provide a venue to discuss sensitive security issues with the United States. Since the collapse of the Soviet Union, Russia views its nuclear arsenal as the last remaining symbol of its superpower status. Arms control discussions with the United States offer Russia a degree of status in international politics. The United States consider these negotiations to be part of its effort to reset U.S.-Russia relations, providing an area of dialogue and cooperation that could help rebuild confidence in the broader relationship.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 27, 2023
- Accession Number
- AD1211038
Entities
People
- Richard Lawlor
Organizations
- Naval War College