Russia's decision to ditch cold war arms limitation treaty raises tensions with Nato
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Wednesday, November 8, 2023
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It added that the admission of Finland into Nato and Sweden’s application meant the treaty was dead.
Key Points:
- It added that the admission of Finland into Nato and Sweden’s application meant the treaty was dead.
- The CFE treaty had aimed to reduce the opportunity for either side to launch a rapid offensive against the other.
- In fact, the US never ratified the treaty and Moscow and Washington have exchanged angry words, each accusing the other of undermining the NTBT.
- This has helped nobody – activity in both the US and Russia has escalated tensions over nuclear testing.
Aggressive stance
- Moscow’s increasingly aggressive stance will certainly add to concerns for the Baltic states and Poland.
- With a significant number of ethnic Russians as part of their populations, the risks of civil unrest leading to an escalation is rather high.
- But the Russians would need to be more competent and capable in their military adventures than they have been shown to be in Ukraine.
- The likelihood of a Russian attack is small, but Putin likes to keep his options open.
- He is also an experienced propagandist and will use whatever levers he has to try and prise Nato’s members apart.
Kenton White does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.