Russia leaves INF Treaty

The Federation Council, the upper chamber of the Russian parliament, has unanimously adopted a law on the suspension of Russia’s participation in the INF Treaty, which provides for the complete destruction of short- and intermediate-range missiles. The law, which was proposed by President Vladimir Putin, will come into force on the day of its official publication.

The law says that Russia is suspending its participation in the treaty and that only the Russian president has the right to change that decision. Russian MPs argued that Russia’s move had been caused by the actions of the US and NATO. Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Sergei Riabkow told reporters on Wednesday that Russia is prepared for all potential NATO activities towards it, which would be connected with the INF Treaty.
(PAP)