EU responds to Russia’s withdrawal from Nuclear Test Ban Treaty

The European Union has condemned Russia’s withdrawal from the Treaty on the Ban of Nuclear Tests.

EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell released a statement on behalf of the Union.

Borrell pointed out that Russia withdrew its ratification of the treaty while continuing its aggressive war against Ukraine, and that it had often resorted to nuclear hyperbole and threats, occasionally hinting at the resumption of nuclear tests.

“The EU deeply regrets Russia’s decision,” Borrell said, noting that the pact has been approved by all EU nations and is a critical tool for nuclear disarmament and against nuclear proliferation.

Borrell emphasized that eight new nations have ratified the Treaty since 2021, which is a significant step toward the Treaty’s expansion.

“Russia’s unjustified intention to withdraw its ratification of the treaty is a serious step backwards in Russia’s commitment to contribute to the international security architecture, and it undermines ongoing efforts on nuclear non-proliferation and disarmament… “The EU calls on Russia to continue to respect the treaty’s purpose and objectives,” Borrell said, adding that he was referring to Russia as a permanent member of the UN Security Council.

The EU’s top diplomat urged countries that have yet to ratify the pact to do so as soon as possible.

Following a resolution by the Russian parliament, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed legislation withdrawing Russia’s ratification of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty on November 2.

Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry described Russia’s decision as “another step toward nuclear blackmail.”