However, the period for starting tests is open. Experts speak of 18 months to 36 months.
Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin blame each other for the latest escalation. After the USA abandoned the INF Treaty banning land-based short- and medium-range missiles in 2019 during Trump’s first term in office, Putin also announced this summer that he would no longer adhere to the treaty.
With regard to nuclear weapons, Putin had often made vague threats with nuclear weapons since the Russian attack on Ukraine. With regard to Western arms deliveries to Ukraine, the Russian head of state declared: “Whoever tries to hinder us, let alone create a threat to our country and our people, must know that Russia’s response will be immediate and will lead to consequences that you have never experienced in your history.”
Both sides are currently fueling mutual mistrust through vague announcements. CSIS experts Williams and MacKenzie therefore warn: “The lack of transparency in comments from both sides carries the risk of misperceptions and premature testing or test preparation.”
