US pursuing economic, military measures against Russian nuclear violations

WASHINGTON, Dec 8 (KUNA) -- The US stressed that its Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty with Russia is "under threat today" and in addition to a diplomatic solution, it is "pursuing economic and military measures" in order for the country to "return to compliance.
"This includes a review of military concepts and options, including options for conventional, ground-launched, intermediate-range missile systems, which would enable the United States to defend ourselves and our allies, should the Russian Federation not return to compliance," said a State Department memo.
"The Russian Federation has taken steps to develop, test, and deploy a ground-launched cruise missile system that can fly to ranges prohibited by the INF Treaty," said the memo.
In 2014 the US declared Russia in violation of its obligations under the treaty and since then says Russian officials have "refused to discuss the violation." The US called on Russia to "take concrete steps to return to compliance, preserve the INF Treaty, and restore confidence in the role of arms control to manage strategic stability," it added. (end) ak.hm