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US-Russia Nuclear Treaty Expires Amid Fears of Arms Race

February 5, 2026

2 min read

Key Takeaways

US-Russia nuclear treaty New START has expired.
Expiration raises risk of new nuclear arms race.
Treaty limited Russia and US to 1,550 deployed strategic warheads.
US and Russia may observe some treaty obligations despite expiration.

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Strategic Implications

The expiration of New START may signal a new era of nuclear competition between the US and Russia, which could have significant strategic and budgetary implications for both nations. This development suggests a shift in the global nuclear landscape, with potential consequences for deterrence and arms control efforts, and may indicate a need for the US to reassess its nuclear modernization plans in light of growing threats from Russia and China.

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What Happened

New START Demise Raises Risk of Nuclear Escalation Between Moscow and Washington

The US-Russia nuclear treaty New START has expired, ending five decades of negotiated efforts to limit nuclear weapons. The treaty’s demise raises the risk of a new nuclear arms race between Moscow and Washington, with significant strategic and budgetary consequences for both nations. Despite the expiration, US and Russian officials may observe some of the treaty’s obligations, according to reports. The development has sparked concerns among experts, who warn that a new arms race could have devastating consequences. The expiration of New START was first reported by Breaking Defense.

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