NATO countries announce intention to withdraw from Conventional Armed Forces in Europe Treaty

The Alliance's press service reports.

"While recognizing the role of the CFE as a cornerstone of the Euro-Atlantic security architecture, a situation whereby Allied States Parties abide by the Treaty, while Russia does not, would be unsustainable. Therefore, as a consequence, Allied States Parties intend to suspend the operation of the CFE Treaty for as long as necessary, in accordance with their rights under international law. This is a decision fully supported by all NATO Allies," the statement reads.

It is noted that the decision was supported by all NATO members.

The statement also emphasizes that the Allies remain united in their commitment to effective conventional arms control as a key element of Euro-Atlantic security.

The Alliance will also continue to consult and assess the implications of the current security environment and its impact on NATO's security.

It should be noted that the Treaty on Conventional Armed Forces in Europe was signed on 19 November 1990 in Paris by 22 states. It is an agreement between NATO countries and the Warsaw Pact Organisation.

The treaty provides for the limitation of five categories of weapons and equipment: tanks, armored personnel carriers, artillery over 100 mm, aircraft and attack helicopters, as well as information exchange and regular inspections in the participating countries.

Russia suspended its participation in the treaty by Putin's decree back in 2007. In 2015, Russia announced that it would suspend its participation in meetings of the Joint Consultative Group (JCG), but formally remained a party to the treaty. On 7 November, Russia finally withdrew from the Treaty "without regret and with confidence in its rightness".