Q.5 Now do the nature and possible prospects of US-Russia strategic nuclear deterrence change with the enforcement of the New START treaty of 2021? What could be the treaty’s implications on Pakistan’s nuclear program keeping in view its defense policy? 2022

The New START treaty of 2021 between the United States and Russia is an important arms control agreement that aims to reduce the number of strategic nuclear weapons deployed by the two countries. The treaty’s enforcement has the potential to change the nature and prospects of US-Russia strategic nuclear deterrence in several ways.

First, the treaty’s enforcement could help to reduce the risk of nuclear conflict between the US and Russia by limiting the number of deployed strategic nuclear weapons. This could create greater stability and reduce the risk of miscalculation or accidental use of nuclear weapons.

Second, the treaty’s enforcement could provide an impetus for further arms control agreements between the US and Russia. This could lead to greater cooperation between the two countries and reduce tensions in the region.

However, the New START treaty’s implications for Pakistan’s nuclear program are unclear. Pakistan is not a signatory to the treaty, and its defense policy is focused on deterrence against India, rather than the US or Russia. Pakistan’s nuclear program is driven by its regional security concerns, and its primary focus is on maintaining a credible nuclear deterrent against its perceived threats.

The New START treaty’s implications for Pakistan’s nuclear program will depend on several factors, including the trajectory of US-Russia relations, the evolution of India-Pakistan relations, and the overall regional security environment. However, it is unlikely that the New START treaty will have a direct impact on Pakistan’s nuclear program in the near term.

In conclusion, the New START treaty’s enforcement has the potential to change the nature and prospects of US-Russia strategic nuclear deterrence by reducing the risk of nuclear conflict and providing an impetus for further arms control agreements. However, the treaty’s implications for Pakistan’s nuclear program are unclear, and its impact will depend on a range of regional and global factors.