International security

US pursuing 'economic and military' options after Russia arms treaty dispute

The United States is pursuing economic and military measures to compel Russia back into compliance with a landmark arms treaty, the State Department said Friday, while Russia said it’s ready to talk with the United States about saving the accord.

Friday’s statements from the State Department and the Russian Foreign Ministry marked the 30th anniversary of the signing of the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty, a landmark agreement credited with helping end the Cold War.

“While the United States will continue to pursue a diplomatic solution, we are now pursuing economic and military measures intended to induce the Russian Federation to return to compliance,” State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert said in a statement.

“This includes a review of military concepts and options, including options for conventional, ground-launched, intermediate-range missile systems, which would enable the United States to defend ourselves and our allies, should the Russian Federation not return to compliance. This step will not violate our INF Treaty obligations.”