On October 6, the Russian Presidential Press Secretary told media that Moscow hopes Washington will support President Putin’s initiative regarding the New START treaty.

When asked about U.S. President Trump’s response to President Putin’s New START initiative, the spokesperson stated during a telephone news briefing that the Kremlin welcomes Trump’s characterization of the Russian proposal as a “good idea.” He said, Russia believes this provides grounds for optimism that the United States will support Putin’s initiative. However, Russia has not yet received any official response from the U.S. through diplomatic channels.

According to reports from October 5, U.S. President Trump responded to questions on the White House South Lawn, stating that he believes Putin’s proposal to extend the New START treaty’s weapon limits for one year is a good idea.

Additionally, the spokesperson stated that the Kremlin considers EU politicians’ statements about Russian involvement in drone launches over European countries to be unfounded. He suggested that EU politicians “broaden their perspective” rather than linking every drone incident to Russia.

On September 22, Russian President Putin proposed that if the United States refrains from actions that undermine the existing balance, Russia will continue to adhere to the New START treaty’s core limits for one year after its expiration. On October 2, Putin stated that if the U.S. does not extend the New START treaty, Russia will not extend it either. He added that even if the U.S. later agrees to an extension after the treaty expires, Russia would find it difficult to agree to extend it.

New START treaty

The New START treaty is a nuclear arms reduction agreement between the United States and Russia that entered into force in 2011. It limits the number of deployed strategic nuclear warheads and launchers for both countries, serving as a cornerstone of post-Cold War arms control. The treaty was extended for five years in 2021 to maintain these verifiable limits on the world’s two largest nuclear arsenals.

Kremlin

The Kremlin is a historic fortified complex at the heart of Moscow, Russia, serving as the country’s political power center. Originally constructed in the 12th century, it has been the residence of Russian rulers from the Tsars to the current government. The site is famed for its iconic cathedrals, palaces, and the surrounding red brick walls and towers.

White House

The White House is the official residence and workplace of the President of the United States, located in Washington, D.C. It was designed by James Hoban and its construction was completed in 1800, with President John Adams being the first to reside there. The building has since been the center of the American executive branch and has undergone several major renovations, including after being burned by British forces in 1814.