According to Farhan Haq, the Deputy Spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General, the current moment represents a "bleak phase for peace and security." He noted that the risk of nuclear weapon use is currently at its highest level in decades.
Nevertheless, the UN is confident that even in conditions of uncertainty, there is an opportunity to rethink existing approaches and develop an updated arms control system.
The Secretary-General's representative also pointed out that the leaders of Russia and the United States understand the destabilizing consequences that a nuclear arms race can have and recognize the need to prevent new uncontrolled proliferation of nuclear weapons. The UN calls on both countries to take concrete actions in this direction.
The New START Treaty, signed in 2010 for a period of ten years, has been extended until February 5, 2026. This document limits the number of deployed nuclear warheads to 1,550 and includes mechanisms for mutual inspections and notifications. Upon the expiration of the treaty, these mechanisms will cease.
