Open Skies Treaty (15 January 2021)

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France regrets Russia’s announcement of its intention soon to initiate a procedure to withdraw from the Treaty on Open Skies, which is a pillar of the conventional arms control system and contributes to peace and security on our continent.

The decision is being taken at a time when all States Parties, including the Russian Federation, have just reaffirmed their commitment to the treaty and to fully implementing its provisions, at the fourth Open Skies Treaty Review Conference. Along with several European partners, France recently proposed to deepen discussions on issues raised by Russia linked to its implementation. We regret that Russia did not wish to commit to the path of that dialogue and is now opting to withdraw from the treaty.

We hope that Russia will reconsider its decision, which undermines the treaty itself and, beyond that, our efforts aimed at strengthening mutual trust and consolidating our collective security.