Statement by Under Secretary for Arms Control and International Security Andrea L. Thompson

Geneva, January 15, 2019

The below is attributable to Andrea L. Thompson, Under Secretary for Arms Control and International Security:

“Today we held talks with a Russian delegation on the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty.  In doing so, we are upholding Secretary Pompeo’s commitment to continue to talk with Russian officials to urge Russia to return to full and verifiable compliance with the Treaty before the 60-day deadline announced on December 4.  The meeting was disappointing as it is clear Russia continues to be in material breach of the Treaty and did not come prepared to explain how it plans to return to full and verifiable compliance.  Our message was clear:  Russia must destroy its noncompliant missile system.  The U.S. delegation will brief allies and partners, including at NATO tomorrow, on these discussions.”