Overview

• Putin said it would be “no big deal” for Russia if Washington declines to extend the treaty’s warhead limits, though he called the loss of the arms-control framework a shame.
• Russia signaled it would voluntarily keep current limits if the United States does the same, but Washington has not formally agreed.
• He confirmed Russia is continuing to develop and test new-generation strategic weapons as he described an ongoing arms race.
• Putin warned Russia would conduct a nuclear test if other countries do so, a move experts say could trigger broader testing and raise tensions.
• He suggested extending the treaty for at least one year as a workable option to preserve deterrence while decisions are made.