Topic: 2026 – Verification of Disarmament
Country: Russian Federation
Delegate Name: Aishwarya Ramisetty
Topic Background:
The Verification of Disarmament can refer to the intensive analysis of information to determine if a country or state obliges to the reduction of weaponry through techniques such as remote sensing and on-site inspections. While this problem is recognized globally, the Conference on Disarmament, located in Geneva, Switzerland, takes the main initiative. The United Nations is heavily involved in the development of disarmament affairs, working to find a sustainable and realistic solution.
Past International Action:
The United Nations has worked to establish treaties to prevent the testing and production of nuclear weapons, whilst making the shift subtle both to the government and environment. Treaties such as the Treaty on Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) and the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) are both examples of solutions to the growing problem of the consequences created by the overproduction of warheads. However, it is important to take into account that the CTBT, while it is a legal-binding contract, has not yet been put in force. It is still a big step towards the growth of gaining international support and peace.
Country Policy:
The Russian Federation contains approximately 5,600 nuclear arsenal. Leaders of Russia believe that arsenal may be utilized in the scenario that national security is threatened. It is crucial to take into account that while it is in our best interests to keep this planet weapon-free, it can be complicated due to the extreme numbers of nuclear items seen globally. To be frank, the concept of “nuclear zero” is highly unrealistic given the amount of ammunition countries possess. There is no quick solution to this conflict, and understandably so. By taking a longer approach, with the assistance of all countries, we will be able to come to the conclusion that, while it may not end with all weapon supply depleted, the majority of weaponry will be limited and restricted worldwide.
With the New START Treaty coming to an expiration (expired as of February 2026), the Russian Federation believes that the United States reciprocating the actions of keeping a standardized limit to their production of nuclear weapons will ensure a safer, stronger connection internationally.
Possible Solutions:
The Russian Federation has proposed a one-year extension on the New START Treaty, to last throughout the year 2026, but was rejected by President Trump. It is within our best efforts that the United States reconsiders this rejection, to have a basis on resolving this crisis while working to provide a long-term solution. Seeing that the UN wishes to extend on this treaty as well, Russia sees no issue in giving support to this particular project.
Seeing that the United States, alongside Russia, are bearers of the most nuclear weapons, it is only logical that we stand together in creating a stronger foundation to work to restore balance and harmony internationally. Even if the treaty is not extended, we should attempt to create a similar contract to keep each other accountable and provide restrictions amongst each other.
Sources:
https://docs.un.org/en/GE-NDVF/2023/WP.11
https://www.un.org/en/global-issues/disarmament
https://www.ctbto.org/our-mission/the-treaty
https://www.icanw.org/russia
https://disarmament.unoda.org/en/our-work/weapons-mass-destruction/nuclear-weapons/treaty-prohibition-nuclear-weapons
https://www.state.gov/new-start-treaty
https://mid.ru/en/foreign_policy/international_safety/regprla/2055214/
