Core Viewpoint - Russia warns that it reserves the right to respond in kind if the United States resumes nuclear weapons testing [1][3] Group 1: Russia's Position on Nuclear Weapons - Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Ryabkov stated that if the U.S. resumes comprehensive explosive nuclear weapons testing, Russia will retain the right to make a reciprocal response [3] - Ryabkov emphasized that while Russia has shown significant restraint in response to provocative actions from NATO countries, it has also sent important warning signals to its "opponents" while firmly defending its security interests [3] Group 2: Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (START) - Ryabkov mentioned that Russia is preparing for various developments in strategic security following the expiration of the New START treaty, but hopes to avoid the worst-case scenario [3] - President Putin indicated that maintaining the status established by the New START treaty after its expiration is reasonable to prevent further strategic arms races, and Russia is willing to continue adhering to the treaty's core limitations for one year after its expiration, provided the U.S. does not take actions that disrupt the existing balance [3] - The New START treaty, signed by Russia and the U.S. in 2010, aims to limit the number of deployed nuclear warheads and delivery systems, officially came into effect on February 5, 2011, and was originally set for a 10-year term, later extended to February 5, 2026 [3]

Core Points - Russian President Putin has ordered relevant departments to monitor U.S. activities regarding offensive strategic weapon stockpiles [1][3] - Russia believes it is reasonable to maintain the status established by the New START treaty after its expiration to prevent further strategic arms races [3] - Russia is willing to continue adhering to the core limitations of the New START treaty for one year after its expiration, contingent on the U.S. not taking destabilizing actions [3] Summary by Sections - **U.S. Strategic Weapons Monitoring** - Putin emphasized the need for close monitoring of U.S. activities, particularly concerning offensive strategic weapon stockpiles and missile defense system enhancements [3] - **New START Treaty Context** - The New START treaty, signed in 2010, aims to limit the number of nuclear warheads and delivery systems deployed by both countries, originally set to last for 10 years and extended to February 2026 [3]