German FM: Concern Over Expiry of Arms Control Agreements

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul expressed concern about the expiration of the New START treaty between the US and Russia, which expired at 02:00 (Greek time). Mr. Wadephul stressed the need to rebuild trust at the international level and to include China in future arms control agreements.

Russia announced that it no longer considers itself bound by the restrictions of New START. US President Donald Trump had stated that he wanted a "better" agreement, which would also include China, something that Beijing rejects.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called on the US and Russia to immediately begin negotiations for a new agreement.