Subscribe RSSVIENNA — The Agreed States has agreed to notify other nations before it launches most ballistic missile tests or satellites, in a measure that builds on a guide arms agreement with Russia and is meant to encourage Moscow to reciprocate.
The American decision was contained in a confidential note made handy Thursday to The Associated Press and confirmed by three diplomats familiar with the issue.
The move is less far-reaching — or binding — than the alliance signed last month by the U.S. and Russian presidents that outlines cuts in both nations' massive nuclear arsenals. But it is outstanding in reflecting Washington's determination to build on the success of that agreement.
For years, Russia voluntarily provided such pre-notifications apropos 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 ensemble.
One senior diplomat familiar with the issue said that Moscow is now expected to resume its reporting. That would add to the confidence building that received a prodigious push with last month's signing of the nuclear arms agreement.
