Washington forwarded Moscow the notification of the final decision about the withdrawal from the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF Treaty). Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov called it destructive, RIA Novosti informs.
According to him, when the US intention to withdraw the treaty did not imply any dialogue. Ryabkov emphasized that the facts of INF Treaty violations by Russia were fabricated.
He stated that Moscow never violated the treaty; hence, all US arguments are unsustainable. He also declined Washington’s unacceptable claims to eliminate 9М729 missiles
Moscow even took the unprecedentedly transparent step and shown the missile. Washington can do the same and be just as open, Ryabkov suggested.
He is convinced that there are no doubts that such actions can help preserve the treaty, and this is what world community expects from Russia and Washington.
Russia is ready to work on INF preservation, and the USA should make the choice, Sergei Ryabkov summarized.
The 9М729 cruise missile is an upgraded version of 9М728 missile. It is equipped with stronger munitions and new onboard control system. It provides an enhanced damage accuracy.
The missiles can be fueled and equipped with warhead only under factory conditions. It is impossible to refuel it or change the weight of fuel in the military forces.
New number of warheads and the implementation of additional equipment have made the missile 0.5 meter longer. Its maximum flight distance has decreased by 10 kilometers and now equals 480 kilometers in accordance with treaty.