DISINFO: The US destroyed the INF Treaty
SUMMARY
In 2019, the US destroyed the INF Treaty signed in 1987 by Presidents Gorbachev and Reagan.
RESPONSE
Recurring pro-Kremlin disinformation narrative claiming that the collapse of the INF Treaty in 2019 is to be blamed entirely on the US.
It is not true that the US is responsible for the INF treaty's termination. The US withdrawal from the treaty came about as a result of Russia's serious violation of the treaty agreements.
The US had been concerned about Russian non-compliance with the treaty for many years. As early as 2008, the US government was aware of evidence of Russian testing of a missile in violation of the treaty.
In July 2014, former US President Obama officially accused Russia of testing a missile (the 9M729 missile) in violation of the INF Treaty.
In March 2017, a senior US military official accused Russia of deploying a new missile, which posed a threat to NATO and to facilities within NATO's area of responsibility.
From 2015 to 2018, allegations of violations have been reconfirmed. Russia has produced, tested and deployed 9M729 missiles in violation of its obligations under the INF. According to NATO experts, “the 9M729 can reach European capitals”
In the last six years the US has engaged with Russia to try and resolve Russia’s non-compliance, raising the issue in numerous meetings, including at the highest levels as well as in meetings of technical experts. Russia constantly refused to address US and NATO concerns.
On the 2nd of August 2019, after the last opportunity to honour the Treaty obligations was turned down again by Moscow, the US put into effect its decision to withdraw from the Treaty. This decision was fully supported by NATO Allies.
Read similar cases claiming that American authorities intentionally terminated the INF treaty, Russia not at fault, that the US decided to change global security system by blaming collapse of the INF treaty on Russia, and that the US has violated the INF Treaty and refused to discuss with Russia.