Russia refutes US claims of space nuclear weapon plans, urging stricter adherence to treaties

Russian President Vladimir Putin declared that Moscow has no plan to deploy nuclear weapons in space, asserting that Russia's space capabilities are similar to that of the US.

Putin's comments respond to reports originating from the US last week. The American media reported last Wednesday that US intelligence has information suggesting Russia's intent to position an anti-satellite nuclear system in space. The following day, White House National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby characterised Moscow's pursuit of anti-satellite weapons as "troubling". He emphasised that the Kremlin's current capabilities do not pose a "direct threat to anyone's safety" because this weapon is not yet prepared for use. Concurrently, he noted that this would constitute a breach of the Outer Space treaty.

- Our position is distinctly clear and open: we have always been and continue to be against the idea of deploying nuclear weapons in space - Putin declared on Tuesday. - We encourage everyone to comply with all standing agreements in this area - he added, addressing the United States in particular.

Putin underscored that Russia's space capabilities are on par with other nations. And they know it, he again referenced the United States.

Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu suggests that the White House made these accusations deliberately to sway Congress to support Ukraine and to "encourage" Moscow to recommence talks on nuclear arms control - talks which Russia has suspended due to escalating tensions with the US over the conflict in Ukraine.

A treaty endorsed by over 130 countries, including Russia, forbids the deployment of "nuclear weapons or other weapons of mass destruction" in orbit or the stationing of "weapons in space in any manner".

Source: TRT World