Washington: The US on Friday accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of openly breaching Cold War-era treaties by developing a new generation of “invincible” weapons and said the American military was fully prepared to defend the country.
“President Putin has confirmed what the US government has known for a long time, but that Russia has denied prior to this,” White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said. She said Russia has been developing destabilising weapons systems for over a decade in direct violations of its treaty obligations.
Her comments came hours after President Putin announced that Russia has developed a number of advanced weapons systems, including a nuclear-powered cruise missile, which make all US capabilities aimed at undermining the Russian nuclear deterrent obsolete. Ms Sanders said US President Donald Trump understands the threats facing America and its allies in this century and is determined to protect the homeland and preserve peace through strength. “US defense capabilities are, and will, remain second to none,” she told reporters.
“And now, because of the new defence budget of $700 billion, our military will be far stronger than ever. As President's Nuclear Posture Review made clear, America is moving forward to modernise our nuclear arsenal and ensure our capabilities are unmatched, Sanders said.
