The U.S. withdrawal from the INF Treaty marks a significant shift in global arms control, escalating tensions between Washington and Moscow.
Story Snapshot
- The INF Treaty, signed in 1987, eliminated an entire class of nuclear weapons.
- The U.S. accused Russia of violating the treaty with the 9M729 missile.
- Mutual accusations led to the treaty’s collapse in 2019.
- The end of the treaty marks an increase in U.S.-Russia tensions.
U.S. Accusations and Treaty Collapse
The United States formally accused Russia of violating the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty, alleging the development and deployment of the 9M729 ground-launched cruise missile. These accusations marked a turning point in arms control, as Russia denied the allegations and countered with accusations against U.S. missile systems in Europe. The U.S. declared Russia in “material breach” of the treaty in 2018, leading to the suspension of American obligations in February 2019 and a complete withdrawal by August 2019.
Historical Context and Treaty Significance
The INF Treaty, signed by President Reagan and Soviet leader Gorbachev in 1987, was a landmark agreement that eliminated all U.S. and Soviet ground-launched ballistic and cruise missiles with ranges between 500 and 5,500 kilometers. The treaty led to the destruction of 2,692 missiles by 1991, significantly reducing nuclear tensions in Europe. Its collapse not only heightened U.S.-Russia tensions but also raised concerns about the arms race, as neither side currently engages in discussions to revive the agreement.
Current Developments and Future Implications
Following the treaty’s expiration, Russia announced the suspension of its obligations and initiated development of new missile systems. The U.S. Department of Defense conducted its first test of a conventionally configured, ground-launched cruise missile in August 2019, confirming the end of INF-era constraints. These moves have increased uncertainty in European security, with risks of new missile deployments in Europe and Asia.
As CNN reported, Alexander Vershbow of the Atlantic Council warned that the INF collapse creates a risk of an unpredictable U.S.–Russia arms race in Europe and Asia. The Guardian and Atlantic Council analysts have described the collapse as signaling a long-term decline in arms control norms and increased strategic instability.
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