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U.S., Russian Missiles Defy Treaty

Dec 22, 2014 | 17:29 GMT

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U.S., Russian Missiles Defy Treaty

The United States has long suspected Russia of violating the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF), which prohibits the deployment of nuclear and conventional ground-launched ballistic and cruise missiles with intermediate ranges, defined as 500-5,500 kilometers (310-3,410 miles). Of particular concern has been Russia's development of the R-500 ground-based cruise missile, as well as its testing of the SS-27 Mod 2 intercontinental ballistic missile at ranges prohibited by the INF treaty. Over the past few years, the United States has launched inquiries into these alleged breaches and has indicated that it views them as serious violations of the INF treaty.

The coming year could see further erosion and the possible dissolution of the INF treaty. The United States' ballistic missile defense plans in Europe are set to progress in 2015, and if European states accept a U.S. deployment of nuclear cruise missiles, the move would only inflame tensions with Russia further. In response to the potential move, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has proposed deploying Russian nuclear weapons in Crimea. Indeed, such a development would for all intents and purposes kill the INF treaty.

The INF treaty remains a foundational agreement that has enhanced the rapport between the United States and the Soviet Union — and now Russia — for close to three decades. Its demise, while giving both parties more military options in a changing world, will undermine previously built up confidence. The fact that Washington and Moscow are circumventing the treaty — and even thinking of leaving it entirely — highlights the deteriorating relations between the United States and Russia.