Biden and Putin agree to extend New START treaty

The New START treaty, a pivotal arms control agreement between the United States and Russia, was originally signed to limit the number of deployed strategic nuclear warheads and delivery systems. This treaty plays a crucial role in maintaining strategic stability and reducing the risk of nuclear conflict between the two nations. The agreement allows for a maximum of 1,550 deployed nuclear warheads and 700 deployed delivery systems, including intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs), and heavy bombers. The treaty also includes verification measures, such as on-site inspections and data exchanges, which enhance transparency and trust between the two countries. The extension of the New START treaty is significant as it ensures that these limitations and verification protocols remain in place, thereby contributing to global security and non-proliferation efforts.