Russia lacks resources to engage in “unconstrained” nuclear arms race – Pentagon

This was reported by CNN, referring to the top Pentagon official.

Colin Kahl, Under Secretary of Defense for Policy, noted that the Russian Armed Forces are currently strained by the war, sanctions and export restrictions. According to him, the withdrawal from the New START treaty was simply an attempt to generate some “rhetorical headlines”, but the situation has not changed.

"Frankly, Russia is in no position for an unconstrained nuclear arms race. They do not have the money, especially given the strain on their military from the war, sanctions, export controls. So, you know, I think this was a way for him to generate some rhetorical headlines. But I think as a practical matter, it has not changed the situation," Kahl told lawmakers on the House Armed Services Committee Tuesday.

The Pentagon official, however, warned against underestimating Russia as it remains a dangerous state with nuclear weapons. However, in his opinion, Moscow is unlikely to use them.

“It's also interesting that Putin decided to suspend, as opposed to leave the treaty. I think that's actually an indication that it's not effective leverage over us,” Kahl told lawmakers.

The official emphasized that the United States had warned Russia of the consequences of using nuclear weapons against Ukraine.

• On Tuesday, February 28, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree on the suspension of Russia's participation in the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty.