Department Spokesperson Victoria Nuland today stressed that the United State remains firmly committed to revitalizing conventional arms control in Europe.
“Today the United States announced in Vienna, Austria, that it would cease carrying out certain obligations under the Conventional Armed Forces in Europe (CFE) Treaty with regard to Russia.” -Ms. Nuland
She said the announcement in the CFE Treaty’s implementation group comes after the United States and NATO Allies have tried over the past 4 years to find a diplomatic solution following Russia’s decision in 2007 to cease implementation with respect to all other 29 CFE States.
“Since then, Russia has refused to accept inspections and ceased to provide information to other CFE Treaty parties on its military forces as required by the Treaty.” -Ms. Nuland
She highlighted that the United States will continue to implement the Treaty and carry out all obligations with all States Parties other than Russia, including not exceeding the numerical limits on conventional armaments and equipment established by the Treaty.
“We will resume full Treaty implementation regarding Russia if Russia resumes implementation of its Treaty obligations.” -Ms. Nuland
She noted that in order to increase transparency and consistent with U.S. longstanding effort to promote stability and build confidence in Europe, it will voluntarily inform Russia of any significant change in our force posture in Europe.
