US Remains Ready to Defend Nation, Allies Regardless of New START Future - STRATCOM

WASHINGTON (Sputnik) - The United States is prepared to safeguard the country and its allies even if the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (New START) collapses, Gen. Anthony Cotton, commander of US Strategic Command, told Sputnik.

"My responsibility is to ensure US STRATCOM remains ready to deter strategic attack through a safe, secure, effective, and credible global combat capability, and when directed, is ready to prevail in any conflict," Cotton said. "Let me assure you we remain ready to defend our nation and our allies and partners."

Cotton’s comments came in response to a question on how Russia suspending its participation in the treaty affects STRATCOM’s planning and what the command's position is regarding the future of New START.

"For any questions related to New START, I refer you to the US State Department," he said.

Cotton said Wednesday that the US is reviewing whether it can meet the challenges that may present themselves after the New START arms control treaty expires in 2026.

New START is the last remaining treaty capping US and Russian nuclear arsenals.

In February this year, Russia suspended its participation in the accord over the US’s involvement in Ukraine, pausing on-site inspections and biannual data updates or notifications. Three months later, the US followed suit.

Both sides, however, say they continue to abide by New START's numerical limits.

The US still wants to maintain New START with Russia given that the accord is in the interest of both countries, Under Secretary for Arms Control and International Security Bonnie Jenkins said in July.