Trump's nuclear arms control push with Russia hinges on China

The New START arms control treaty between the United States and Russia expired on Thursday, eliminating restrictions on nuclear weapons programs between the world's two largest nuclear powers for the first time this century. President Trump has stated he wants to negotiate a superior replacement agreement that would include China, though experts warn such a deal could take years due to complex verification requirements and China's refusal to participate until US and Russian arsenals are reduced. While US and Russian negotiators are reportedly close to a temporary agreement to maintain existing restrictions, former officials emphasize this would lack the comprehensive transparency and inspection mechanisms that typically require years to establish.