Moscow, 5 February 2026 (dpa/MIA) – With the expiration of the New START nuclear weapons treaty between the United States and Russia on Thursday, Moscow no longer considers either side bound by its regulations.

The US has not officially responded to Russia's proposal to adhere to the treaty's terms for another year, the Foreign Ministry in Moscow said on Wednesday.

Public comments from the US side also do not suggest that Washington is willing to do so.

Therefore, Moscow assumes that the treaty partners are no longer bound by the treaty's obligations and are fundamentally free in their choice of subsequent actions.

Russia intends to act responsibly and thoughtfully, the statement from the ministry said.

The New START nuclear weapons treaty, the last major agreement on nuclear disarmament, expires on Thursday.

US President Donald Trump recently said about the end of the treaty that the US would just make a better deal.

Washington demands the inclusion of China, which is rapidly expanding its nuclear capabilities, in a future control system.

Beijing rejects this, and Moscow also considers it unnecessary.

Photo: EPA