Unveiling Nuclear Non-Proliferation Synergy: US-Russia Dynamics, Ukraine's Impact, and Envisioning the NPT's Evolution

Abstract

Non-proliferation cooperation between the United States and Russia improved nuclear
weapon security for decades. However, when Russia's economy steadied, the
collaboration between the two nations slowed and became more difficult. Russia's ties
with the West became strained, and security services began to play a bigger role in its
strategy. Because Russia annexed Crimea and military action in Ukraine, relations
between the two countries deteriorated noticeably, and the US imposed sanctions and
suspended nuclear energy cooperation. This study aims to dissect the underlying
factors and political dynamics that led to the breakdown of cooperation between the
United States and Russia regarding the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). Additionally, it
investigates how the roles of both countries in addressing regional proliferation threats
have evolved. Through qualitative analysis, the research seeks to provide insights into
the complexities of international relations and nuclear security governance. The article
argues that unless the NPT's shortcomings are rectified, it will eventually lose
significance and will be viewed as a contract that is impossible to enforce and
ineffective in preventing nuclear proliferation.