MOSCOW (Pakistan Point News / Sputnik - 03rd February, 2019) Washington is willing to engage in dialogue with Russia on arms control following its decision to suspend the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty, but only on the basis of a responsible approach to the fulfillment of mutual obligations, US State Secretary Mike Pompeo said on Saturday.
"The United States remains committed to effective arms control that advances U.S., allied, and partner security; is verifiable and enforceable; and includes partners that comply responsibly with their obligations. The United States stands ready to engage with Russia on arms control negotiations that meet these criteria," Pompeo said in a statement.
The US state secretary announced on Friday that Washington had suspended its obligations under the INF Treaty and triggered the six month withdrawal process unless Moscow comes back into compliance with the pact.
Russian President Vladimir Putin said earlier on Saturday that Russia had suspended its participation in the treaty in response to the US actions. He ordered Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu not to continue initiating negotiations on disarmament with the United States, but noted that all Russia's proposals remained on the table.
