Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

Russia, U.S. close to finalizing new nuclear arms reduction deal

RIA Novosti

21/12/200913:17

MOSCOW, December 21 (RIA Novosti) - Russia and the United States have finalized a new strategic arms reduction treaty, the Russian Foreign Ministry said on Monday.

During the eighth round of Russia-U.S. talks on a new deal to replace the Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (START I) which expired on December 5, "the delegations resolved most of the issues that had been discussed in recent months, and reached coordinated positions," a statement on the ministry's website said.

The eighth round of Russia-U.S. nuclear arms talks was held in Geneva on November 9 - December 19. The new treaty is expected to be signed early next year.

"Several problems remain to be settled for final approval of the treaty and its submission to the presidents of Russia and the U.S. for signing, which is intended to take place in the near future. The negotiations will be continued in January 2010," the document said.

The statement said negotiations are being held in a constructive and businesslike manner, reflecting the spirit of partnership and mutual respect.

Russian Prescient Dmitry Medvedev and his U.S. counterpart Barack Obama announced at their first meeting in April that the countries would replace the START 1 treaty as part of their efforts to "reset" bilateral ties.

The treaty's outline agreed by the presidents included cutting nuclear arsenals to 1,500-1,675 operational warheads and delivery vehicles to 500-1,000.