Russian President Vladimir Putin stated on Tuesday that Russia has no plans to deploy nuclear weapons in space, asserting that the country's space capabilities are on par with those of the United States. This declaration comes in response to recent reports from the White House confirming that Russia has acquired an anti-satellite weapon capability, although it is not yet operational.
The White House expressed concerns over the weapon, labeling it as 'troubling' and potentially in violation of the international Outer Space Treaty, which prohibits the deployment of nuclear weapons or any other weapons of mass destruction in space. The treaty, signed by over 130 countries, including Russia, also prohibits the stationing of weapons in outer space in any form.
Putin emphasized Russia's firm stance against the deployment of nuclear weapons in space, urging all nations to adhere to existing agreements in this area. He highlighted that Russia's space capabilities are similar to those of other countries, including the U.S., and denied any deployment of nuclear weapons or related elements for satellite interference purposes.
Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu echoed Putin's statements, suggesting that the allegations of a new Russian space capability could be a tactic to pressure Congress to support aid for Ukraine and prompt Moscow to resume nuclear arms control talks that were suspended amid tensions with the U.S. over Ukraine.
While Putin did not rule out future communication with the U.S., he expressed skepticism due to what he perceives as conflicting agendas. He criticized the U.S. and Western nations for advocating Russia's strategic defeat in Ukraine while simultaneously seeking dialogue on strategic stability, deeming the two objectives incompatible.
