Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday said that Russia was suspending its participation in the New START treaty with the US that limits the two sides’ strategic nuclear arsenals. “In this regard, I am forced to announce today that Russia is suspending its participation in the strategic offensive arms treaty,” Putin said. However, he stressed that Russia was not withdrawing from the treaty.

“Of course, we will not be the first to do this. But if the United States tests, then we will,” he further said.