Stoltenberg: We are trying to save the nuclear arms treaty with Russia

(Patria) – Time is running out to preserve the treaty with Russia on nuclear arms control, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg told the BBC.

He announced a 'measured, defensive' response in the event that Russia does not cease violating the terms of the treaty by August 2nd. 'We have to be prepared for a world... with more Russian missiles,' Stoltenberg said.

The 1987 treaty between the US and the then-Soviet Union banned short- and medium-range nuclear missiles.

US President Donald Trump announced that the US would suspend its own obligations under the INF (Intermediate Range Nuclear Forces) treaty in February, accusing Russia of violating the terms of the treaty.

Russia has rejected the accusations, but immediately after that suspended its own obligations and announced plans to develop new weapons systems.

In an interview with the BBC, Stoltenberg said that Russian missiles have nuclear capability, are mobile, very difficult to detect, and can reach European cities in just a few minutes.

Stoltenberg also commented on the recent delivery of Russian S-400 defense systems to NATO member Turkey, which has caused tensions between the US and Turkey.

'This is a serious problem because it is a serious disagreement between two important allies,' commented the NATO Secretary General, adding that NATO supports efforts to resolve the dispute, while praising Turkey's role in the organization.

Stoltenberg praised the efforts of alliance members to increase defense budgets to the targeted 2% of their national budgets.