President Vladimir Putin said Sunday that strengthening Russia’s nuclear forces has become an “absolute priority” following the expiration of the country’s last remaining nuclear arms treaty with the United States.
In a video address marking Defender of the Fatherland Day, Putin emphasized the importance of the nuclear triad — land-based missiles, submarine-launched weapons, and strategic bombers — describing it as the cornerstone of Russia’s security and global strategic balance.
“The development of the nuclear triad, which guarantees Russia’s security and ensures effective strategic deterrence, remains an absolute priority,” Putin said.
He also pledged to continue bolstering Russia’s military capabilities, citing lessons learned from the nearly four-year conflict in Ukraine. Putin said all branches of the armed forces would be enhanced, with a focus on combat readiness, mobility, and the ability to operate under challenging conditions.
Putin’s remarks come days before the anniversary of Russia’s military offensive in Ukraine, a war that has caused widespread destruction, mass displacement, and heavy casualties.
With the expiration of the New START agreement earlier this month, Moscow and Washington are no longer bound by a formal nuclear arms control framework. Despite this, Russia has said it will maintain a “responsible” posture regarding its strategic nuclear arsenal and continue observing previously established limits.
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