Putin Revokes Russia's Nuclear Test Ban Signature
Russia To Potentially Commence Nuclear Testing
Overt Operator
November 03, 2023
Russia's recent de-ratification of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty (CTBT) is a potential escalation in the ongoing Ukraine war and the broader standoff between Washington and Moscow. President Vladimir Putin signed the law on Thursday, November 2, paving the way for potential Russian nuclear testing.
The CTBT, a landmark agreement from 1996, aimed to ban all nuclear testing and explosions. However, Russia's decision to de-ratify the treaty brings it in line with the United States, which never fully ratified it. Other countries that have not ratified the treaty include China, India, Pakistan, North Korea, Israel, Egypt, and Iran.
The Kremlin previously announced that it would "mirror" the US position on the treaty. The law, effective from November 2, states that Russia will no longer be bound by the UN-backed nuclear test ban. While Russia ratified the treaty in 2000, the United States never codified it into law.
Russian officials have emphasized that the de-ratification does not mean Russia intends to pursue nuclear tests. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that the decision aims to bring the de facto situation to a common denominator with the US. However, concerns arise as both Russia and the US have recently conducted "drills" of their nuclear-armed strategic forces.
Actual nuclear testing would be highly controversial, both internationally and domestically, particularly in the US, due to environmental and fallout concerns. While the recent drills did not involve nuclear testing, they raised tensions and increased the risk of potential miscalculations.
Experts and commentators are closely monitoring Russia's de-ratification of the CTBT, viewing it as a possible sign of increased tensions in the ongoing Ukraine conflict and the broader context of a 'new Cold War' between the US and Russia.
The move also highlights the existing discrepancies and disagreements between nuclear-armed nations on the issue of nuclear testing.
The international community will be watching closely to see how this development unfolds and whether it leads to further escalations or renewed efforts towards disarmament and non-proliferation. The implications of Russia's decision could have far-reaching consequences for global security and the delicate balance of power in the nuclear arena.