Photo credit: rostec.ru
The Russian authorities have begun the process of withdrawing from the Open Skies Treaty, RIA Novosti reports.
The Russian Foreign Ministry noted that Washington, having withdrawn from the treaty under a far-fetched pretext, violated the balance of interests of the participants. Now the document cannot be considered a tool for strengthening confidence and security.
The Foreign Ministry recalled that Russia made proposals that could support the viability of the treaty in the new conditions. All these initiatives were in full compliance with the fundamental provisions of the treaty.
It is a pity, the Russian diplomats stated, that their American counterparts did not support them.
Moscow's decision is based on the "lack of progress" in removing obstacles to the operation of the treaty under the new conditions.
After completing all internal exit procedures, Moscow will send a notification to the depositories.
Russia has repeatedly denied accusations by the United States of violating the treaty. It has been in effect for almost three decades, since the early nineties, and is considered one of the important instruments aimed at building confidence in Europe after the end of the Cold War. Since 2002, the document has made it possible for all countries that signed it to openly collect information about each other's armed forces and activities. 34 states participate in the treaty.
Russkiy Mir
