Vienna — The United States has agreed to notify other nations before it launches most ballistic missile tests or satellites, in a measure that builds on a landmark arms agreement with Russia and is meant to encourage Moscow to reciprocate.
The American decision was contained in a confidential note made available Thursday to The Associated Press and confirmed by three diplomats familiar with the issue.
The move is less far-reaching — or binding — than the treaty signed last month by the U.S. and Russian presidents that outlines cuts in both nations’ massive nuclear arsenals. But it is significant in reflecting Washington’s determination to build on the success of that agreement.
For years, Russia voluntarily provided such pre-notifications regarding the launch of ballistic missile tests or satellites. But it stopped doing that two years ago, complaining that the U.S. and other nations were not following suit.
Comments
oldvet 3 years, 1 month ago
We could start by announcing that we will launch nuclear missiles at Iran and North Korea when any nuclear device is detonated against the US. Quit apologizing to our enemies and put them on notice... one strike and you're history...
snap_pop_no_crackle 3 years, 1 month ago
Will North Korea start announcing when they are going to launch torpedos at South Korean naval vessels?
vertigo 3 years, 1 month ago
I thought we did this anyways? As a matter of fact I know we do on certain launches, I have a buddy that works in AFSPC (Air Force Space Command) and he related all the coordination that goes on with other countries whenever we launch a satellite, etc.
Lord knows if I was running the U.S. and was about to launch a test missile I'd at least notify Russia and China. Wouldn't want them to jump the gun thinking we're launching against them. It's also a good practice if we decide to strike first... call them up tell them were testing a couple missiles, it's nothing to worry about.
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