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Description

This paper argues that traditional, treaty-based approaches to arms control are increasingly misaligned with the post–Cold War security environment. With progress on formal agreements stalled and U.S. and Russian priorities diverging, reliance on legally binding treaties has limited further reductions in nuclear risks. The paper proposes a more flexible framework centered on unilateral and reciprocal measures, cooperative threat reduction, and increased transparency. These approaches have already produced meaningful results and are better suited to addressing challenges such as tactical nuclear weapons, nondeployed warheads, and nuclear safety. A reoriented strategy focused on reducing nuclear risks, improving U.S.-Russian relations, and supporting broader national security objectives offers a more practical path forward.

Document Type

Policy Brief

Region(s)

United States, Russia

Topic(s)

Nuclear Policy, Nuclear Deterrence and Escalation, Arms Control and Nonproliferation

Publication Date

2-2001

Publication

Strategic Forum

Publisher

National Defense University Press

City

Washington, DC

Keywords

U.S. strategic arms control policy, nuclear arms control, U.S.-Russia nuclear relations, post-Cold War security environment, unilateral arms reductions, reciprocal measures, cooperative threat reduction, nuclear risk reduction, tactical nuclear weapons, nondeployed nuclear warheads, nuclear transparency measures, arms control policy reform, strategic stability, nuclear security policy, U.S. defense policy nuclear

Renovating U.S. Strategic Arms Control Policy

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