Russian ambassador to the US Antonov names cooperation in space as a priority in working with the new US president

Other priorities include strategic stability, non-proliferation of nuclear weapons,
the fight against terrorism, and the coronavirus pandemic

Anatoly I. Antonov, Russian Ambassador to the U.S.

WASHINGTON, Dec 3 – RIA Novosti. Russian Ambassador to the United States Anatoly Antonov said today at an online conference that Moscow can expand cooperation with the new administration in Washington in at least five areas: strategic stability, non-proliferation of nuclear weapons, cooperation in space, the fight against terrorism, and the coronavirus pandemic.

Antonov called for the restoration of communication channels between the countries. “I dream of seeing our foreign and defense ministers arrive in Washington for two-on-two talks,” he said.

Russia-US arms limitation treaty to expire in February 2021

At the same time, the diplomat expressed doubts that Moscow would be able to agree with Washington on arms control. Today, the only valid arms limitation treaty between Russia and the United States is START III, but it expires on February 5, 2021. If it is not extended, there will be no agreements in the world limiting the arsenals of the largest nuclear powers, he said.

Antonov also welcomed the possibility of the United States returning to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) to resolve the Iranian nuclear issue, and he assured that Russia would not get involved in an arms race with the United States.

Speaking about the results of the elections in the United States, the ambassador noted that Russia recognizes any choice of the Americans, but is waiting for the official announcement of the results before reacting under diplomatic protocol.

The U.S. presidential election was held on November 3. Democratic candidate Joe Biden, according to preliminary data, has recruited up to 306 electors from the states, with a total of 270 required. Incumbent President Donald Trump does not admit defeat and challenges it in the courts of several states.