China says expiration of U.S.-Russia arms treaty regrettable

China expresses regret over the expiration of the U.S.-Russia arms treaty, urging renewed dialogue for global strategic stability.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry said ‌on Thursday (February 5, 2026) that the expiration of the U.S.-Russia ​arms treaty was regrettable and urged the U.S. to resume dialogue with Russia on “strategic stability”. The New START treaty expired at the close of Wednesday (February 4, 2026), marking the end of over half a century of limits on both sides’ strategic nuclear weapons. Russia said on Wednesday (February 4, 2026) it was open to security talks but would resolutely counter ​any new “threats”.

“China regrets the expiration of the New START ⁠Treaty, as the treaty is of great significance to maintaining global strategic stability,” Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said.

“The international community is generally concerned that the expiration ​of the treaty will have ⁠a negative impact on the international nuclear arms control system and the global nuclear order.”

Russia had suggested that both sides continue to honor the treaty’s core limits, and the Chinese Foreign Ministry ‌urged Washington to respond constructively.

“China calls on the United States ‌to respond positively, handle the treaty’s follow-up arrangements responsibly, and resume strategic stability dialogue with Russia as soon ‍as possible. This is also the general expectation of the international community,” Mr. Lin said.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry reiterated that it adheres strictly to a ‍self-defence nuclear strategy.