NATO and Russia Officially Suspend Cold War-Era Treaty Limiting Armed Forces in Europe

Formal withdrawal from the Treaty on Conventional Armed Forces in Europe undermines decades-long efforts towards transparency and cooperative security measures. Russia blames NATO expansion and US support for its decision, measures to reduce risk and foster stability in Europe expected to continue.

Russia has formally withdrawn from the Treaty on Conventional Armed Forces in Europe (CFE), a landmark Cold War-era agreement that placed restrictions on key categories of conventional military equipment in Europe.
NATO has responded, announcing that its member states will also suspend obligations under the treaty. The Alliance described a situation in which allies abide by the treaty while Russia does not as 'unsustainable'.
The move has stirred concerns over the future of arms control agreements in Europe. Several major treaties between Russia and the United States have been strained or terminated in recent years.
Russia blames NATO expansion and US support for its decision to pull out of the treaty. The recent addition of Finland to NATO and ongoing consideration of Sweden's application were cited among Russia's security concerns.
Despite the dissolution of the treaty, the US, NATO allies, and other responsible partners are said to remain committed to effective conventional arms control as a vital part of Euro-Atlantic security. They plan to continue pursuing measures to lessen risk and build trust in Europe.