Entry into force of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons

The Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW) entered into force on January 22. The Russian approach to this treaty has been expressed repeatedly at the relevant multilateral venues and is well known. It will remain the same after the treaty becomes valid.

Let me emphasise once again that we respect the views of those who want to renounce nuclear weapons as soon as possible. However, we do not share these positions on reaching this goal, which envision an artificial acceleration of nuclear disarmament. This is why we consider the TPNW a mistake. This treaty is unable to contribute to the limitation and reduction of nuclear arms. It obviously provokes discord in the international community. The treaty was drafted without considering the fundamental principles underlying the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty or existing strategic realities. Nor does it consider in any way the key problems that must be resolved to achieve sustainable nuclear disarmament on a global scale.

The treaty will not be binding on Russia or on other countries that will not sign or ratify it. We do not think that it establishes universal standards or norms or facilitates the development of common international law.

We are firmly convinced that real progress in nuclear disarmament can only be ensured through consensus solutions. It must be accompanied by the consolidation of international security and stability and enhancing the security of all states without exception. The treaty clearly fails to meet these criteria.