Russian President Vladimir Putin announced on Tuesday that they have no plans to put nuclear weapons in space, stating that their space technology is on par with that of the United States.

Putin’s statement follows the White House confirmation last week that Russia has obtained a “troubling” anti-satellite weapon capability, although such a weapon is not operational yet. White House national security spokesman John Kirby said it would violate the international Outer Space Treaty, but declined to comment on whether the weapon is nuclear-capable.

The agreement, which has been approved by over 130 nations, including Russia, restricts the use of “nuclear weapons or other forms of mass destruction” in space and prohibits the placement of “weapons in outer space in any way.” The administration stated that they will seek direct communication with Russia regarding these concerns.

Putin stated that their stance on the deployment of nuclear weapons in space is unambiguous and open. They have consistently and firmly opposed it and continue to do so. In fact, they are advocating for all parties to adhere to the existing agreements in this field.

During a meeting with his defense minister Sergei Shoigu, Putin stated that Russia has developed space capabilities similar to those of other nations, including the U.S.

He stated that they are aware of it.

According to Shoigu, we have not placed any nuclear weapons in space or any components of them in order to target satellites or disrupt their functionality.

According to Shoigu, the White House may have claimed that Russia has a new space capability as a means to pressure Congress into providing aid to Ukraine and to urge Moscow to resume talks on nuclear arms control, which they have halted due to the ongoing tensions with the U.S. regarding Ukraine.

Putin stated that he is not disregarding the possibility of future communication with the U.S., but he also emphasized his belief that the U.S.’s efforts to defeat Russia in Ukraine currently prevent such contacts.

According to the speaker, there is a contradiction in the approach of the U.S. and the West towards Russia. On one hand, they desire the strategic defeat of Russia, but on the other hand, they also want to engage in a dialogue about strategic stability. The speaker believes that this approach will not be successful.

Source: wral.com