Nuclear Arms Control Era Comes to End Amid Global Rush for New Weapons

New York Times - WorldEN 14 min read 100% complete by David E. Sanger and William J. BroadFebruary 5, 2026 at 11:00 AM

AI Summary

long article 14 min

On February 5, 2026, the last nuclear arms control treaty between the United States and Russia expired, ending over half a century of nuclear arms limitations. This leaves both countries with no restrictions on their nuclear arsenals as they develop new weapons. Talks for a new treaty failed due to the war in Ukraine and President Trump's insistence on including China, who declined. The US is preparing to deploy more warheads, while its rivals are testing new nuclear weapons. This marks a shift away from the era of arms control that began with President Nixon's treaty with the Soviet Union, as China and shaken American allies are also seeking new warheads.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Ukraine 30% Washington 40% Soviet Union 40% Richard M. Nixon ×250% New START 60% Beijing 70% China ×270% Moscow ×270% Vladimir V. Putin ×280% Donald Trump ×490% United States ×290% Russia ×490%

Keywords

nuclear arms control 100% nuclear weapons 90% united states 70% arms race 70% russia 70% superpower confrontation 60% china 60% warheads 50% new start treaty 50% vladimir putin 40%