- The New START treaty, the last US-Russia nuclear arms control agreement, expired on February 5, 2026, ending limits on strategic arsenals.
- This leaves the world without formal nuclear weapon restrictions between the two largest powers for the first time since 1972.
- The expiration heightens concerns among experts about a new arms race and global strategic instability.
- Russia offered a one-year extension in 2025, but the US did not formally accept, with President Trump seeking a broader deal including China.
- UN Secretary-General Guterres warned of a "grave moment," urging renewed negotiations to prevent unchecked nuclear expansion.
New START Treaty Lapses, Arms Race Fears
The New START treaty, the last nuclear arms control agreement between the US and Russia, expired on February 5, 2026, leaving the world without formal limits on their strategic arsenals for the first time since 1972. This critical lapse, following a failed extension attempt and US demands for a broader deal, sparks widespread fears of a dangerous new arms race and escalating global instability.
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