Overview
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated on Friday that Russia's preference is to pursue dialogue with the United States following the expiration of the New START nuclear arms control agreement, but emphasized that Moscow stands ready for any possible developments.
Lavrov's Statement
Addressing the situation, Lavrov said that Moscow will judge whether Washington is prepared to enter talks about strategic nuclear security. He framed Russia's stance succinctly: "We assume that Russia is ready for any developments as New START nuclear treaty expires," Lavrov said. "We prefer dialogue and we will see if the United States is ready for it too."
Context Provided
The statement reiterates Moscow's dual posture of signaling openness to negotiations while maintaining preparedness for unspecified developments. The New START treaty is noted in Lavrov's remarks as a longstanding element of nuclear arms control between the two nations.
What Was Said - What Remains Unsaid
Lavrov's remarks make explicit two points: Russia's stated readiness to engage in dialogue if the United States is willing, and Russia's declared preparedness for any outcome as the treaty lapses. The comments do not provide further detail on next steps, timelines, or specific measures Moscow would take in different scenarios; they indicate that Moscow will evaluate U.S. willingness to participate in discussions on strategic nuclear security.
Takeaway
In his public remarks, the foreign minister balanced a preference for diplomacy with a statement of readiness for alternative developments. The New START treaty is identified as a cornerstone of bilateral nuclear arms control, and Moscow's position as described emphasizes both an openness to talks and an unspecified preparedness for other eventualities.
Note: The information in this article is drawn from the statements described above; no additional developments or details were provided in those statements.