New START Treaty Likely to be Ratified Despite US Congress Shift

Strategic Insights -

The ratification of the new nuclear arms control treaty, or New START, is expected to proceed smoothly despite the shift in the US Congress following the mid-term elections. The Democratic Party, which has retained control of the Senate, will likely ensure the treaty's ratification. Meanwhile, Russian lawmakers are cautiously optimistic about the potential repeal of the Jackson-Vanik amendment, a move they believe will be driven by the new Republican-dominated House of Representatives.

Key Takeaways:

  • The New START treaty, signed by Russian and American presidents earlier this year, is expected to be ratified despite the shift in the US Congress.
  • The Democratic Party's control of the Senate ensures a 51-seat majority, which should facilitate the ratification process.
  • Mikhail Margelov, head of the Russian Federation Council's international affairs committee, believes that the US foreign policy agenda regarding Russia will not change drastically.
  • The Republicans, now in control of the House of Representatives, are expected to offer support to repeal the 1974 Jackson-Vanik amendment.
  • The repeal of the Jackson-Vanik amendment will depend on the Republicans' efforts, and Russia hopes that it will happen after Russia's successful accession to the WTO.

Statistics:

  • 51-seat majority held by the Democratic Party in the US Senate.
  • 1974 - the year the Jackson-Vanik amendment was introduced.

Sources:

  • Interfax, Nov 3