Sullivan: US Willing to Engage in Nuclear Talks with Russia and China 'Unconditionally'

The United States aims to initiate nuclear talks with Russia and China, with no preconditions, in order to prevent a potential nuclear arms race, as stated by a senior White House official.

The administration of President Joe Biden is willing to engage in negotiations regarding nuclear issues with either nation, stressing the importance of avoiding the threat of nuclear annihilation that has loomed since the end of World War II.

During a meeting of the Arms Control Association, White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan emphasized the need for new strategies to reduce the risk of nuclear conflict. He further affirmed that the Biden administration would hold Russia and China accountable for any nuclear aggression or failure to comply with international rules and norms.

Suspending the exchange of some nuclear data with Russia was recently announced by the United States in response to Moscow's decision to unilaterally suspend participation in the New START treaty. However, Sullivan clarified that this decision does not indicate a withdrawal from engagement. The United States remains committed to working with Russia while negotiating arms control from a position of strength and confidence.

Sullivan also highlighted the long-term challenge posed by China's nuclear expansion and modernization program, expressing concern about the regime's reluctance to engage in substantive dialogue on arms control. The United States aims to manage competition with China and ensure that it does not escalate into conflict, while emphasizing the importance of holding both Russia and China accountable for their actions in the nuclear space.

The objective is to establish meaningful dialogue and multilateral arrangements while maintaining transparency and accountability in nuclear matters.