US and Russia informally agree to observe New START nuclear pact after expiration

The U.S. and Russia are nearing a deal to continue observing the expired New START arms control treaty, which is critical for managing their nuclear arsenals. Trump's envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner negotiated on New START with Russian officials on the sidelines of Ukraine talks in Abu Dhabi, but the draft still needs approval from both presidents. Although the treaty expired at midnight on Thursday, informal agreements could allow both sides to adhere to its terms for at least six months while they negotiate a potential extension.

New START limits nuclear warheads and has transparency provisions. The Kremlin has criticized U.S. responses to Russia's proposals. There is skepticism in Washington about extending the treaty without including China, which has a growing nuclear arsenal. A top U.S. official mentioned that any agreement would be a "handshake" deal due to legal constraints on formal extensions.