The conclusion of talks on the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty is a major diplomatic achievement. Yet, the signing of New START is only the first step toward the president's goal of reducing "the number and the role of nuclear weapons" worldwide, writes Daryl G. Kimball in the following editorial in the April issue of Arms Control Today.
The administration must continue its effort to win Senate support for ratification, making it clear that earlier concerns raised by some Republicans have been addressed.
Kimball notes, however, that New START will achieve only modest reductions and will still leave the United States and Russia with thousands of excess nuclear warheads and delivery systems.
He suggests that Obama and Medvedev should maintain progress by starting consultations on the next round of nuclear arms reductions. When New START is signed on April 8, Obama and Medvedev should also invite the world's other recognized nuclear-armed states to engage in a high-level dialogue on nuclear disarmament.
The views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of the directors or members of the Association. The editorial is available for quotation and background information, and may be reprinted with the permission of the editors of Arms Control Today.
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