维护国际核军控体系刻不容缓

Core Viewpoint - The expiration of the New START treaty between the US and Russia on February 5 raises significant concerns about global nuclear stability, with the risk of nuclear weapon use at its highest level in decades [1]. Group 1: Treaty Implications - The New START treaty played a crucial role in limiting the number of nuclear warheads and delivery vehicles deployed by the US and Russia, thereby maintaining global strategic stability and enhancing mutual trust between major powers [1]. - The treaty's expiration means that both superpowers can produce and deploy nuclear weapons without any treaty restrictions, leading to decreased strategic transparency and increased risks of misjudgment [1]. Group 2: Historical Context - Historically, the US has been a primary disruptor of global strategic stability, having withdrawn from several arms control and trust-building mechanisms since the 21st century, including the Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty and the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty [2]. - The US aims to establish a new arms control framework while simultaneously enhancing its military capabilities, such as the Iron Dome missile defense system, reflecting its pursuit of absolute security and military hegemony [2]. Group 3: China's Position - China's nuclear capabilities are significantly smaller than those of the US and Russia, and it maintains its nuclear arsenal at the minimum level necessary for national security, rejecting any arms race [3]. - China adheres to a responsible nuclear strategy, committing to a no-first-use policy and not threatening non-nuclear weapon states, which contradicts the notion of involving a smaller nuclear power in equal arms reduction discussions [3]. Group 4: Call for Responsible Action - In light of the New START treaty's expiration, it is urgent for the US to take responsibility and engage in constructive dialogue with Russia to restore strategic stability, which is a common expectation of the international community [3].