Russia: US statements on conducting nuclear tests "raise concern"

Moscow, 24 Sep (KUNA) -- Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said on Thursday that US statements regarding the commencement of preparations for nuclear tests raise "exceptional concern" over the potential threat they pose to the currently existing moratorium on nuclear testing.

The Russian Foreign Ministry quoted Zakharova as confirming that Moscow would take appropriate measures should any party to the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) conduct new tests, adding that the prospects for the treaty entering into force remain "uncertain" due to the positions of several countries, including the United States.

She clarified that Russia continues to adhere to the voluntary moratorium on nuclear testing, which the Soviet Union declared in 1990, noting that Moscow is closely monitoring developments related to the international commitment to halt such tests.

Zakharova's remarks come at a time when the future of the CTBT is sparking international debate, as the treaty has not yet entered into force, with the United States remaining among the countries that have not ratified it.

Russia withdrew its ratification of the treaty in 2023 while reaffirming its status as a party to the treaty and its commitment to the voluntary moratorium on nuclear testing. (End) D.A.N. / F.D.S.