Russia Lifts Moratorium on Missile Deployments Following INF Treaty Withdrawal
On August 4, 2025, Russia officially lifted its self-imposed moratorium on the deployment of short- and medium-range missiles, a move linked to its withdrawal from the 1987 Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty in 2019, reports 24brussels.
The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that conditions for upholding the moratorium had ceased to exist, justifying its decision to no longer adhere to previous self-imposed restrictions on missile deployment.
The INF Treaty, which prohibited ground-launched missiles with ranges of 500 to 5,500 kilometers, collapsed following the United States’ withdrawal in 2019, an action taken in response to alleged violations by Russia. However, Russia has continually denied these claims, asserting that it is the U.S. that is violating the treaty by developing prohibited missile systems.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has previously warned that the dissolution of the INF would severely undermine the global security architecture, heightening tensions in the region and beyond as nations reassess their military strategies. The lifting of the moratorium signals a significant shift in Russia’s military stance and raises concerns about potential arms escalation.
This development comes amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions, as both NATO and Russia remain at odds over various territorial and security issues, further complicating the international security landscape. Observers suggest that the potential deployment of new missile systems could provoke a renewed arms race, with consequences for European security dynamics.
The current situation is a reminder of the fragile state of global arms control frameworks and the pressing need for diplomatic engagement to mitigate risks associated with such military measures.
