新华时评丨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 raises significant concerns about nuclear arms control and global strategic stability, with the risk of nuclear weapon use at its highest level in decades [1] Group 1: Treaty Expiration Implications - The failure of the New START treaty means that the US and Russia are no longer bound by any treaty limitations on the production and deployment of nuclear weapons, leading to decreased strategic transparency and increased risks of misjudgment [1] - The termination of the treaty could trigger a new arms race between the two nuclear superpowers, posing a direct threat to global peace and development [1] Group 2: Historical Context and US Actions - Historically, the US has been a primary disruptor of global strategic stability, having withdrawn from several arms control agreements such as the Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty and the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty [2] - The US aims to establish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 missile defense systems, 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 required 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 it in equal nuclear disarmament discussions [3] Group 4: Call for Responsible Action - In light of the treaty's expiration, it is urgent for the US to take responsibility and engage in strategic stability dialogues with Russia, aligning with international expectations for major powers [3]