JAKARTA - President Vladimir Putin on Sunday said that the development of Russia's nuclear power is now an "absolute priority" after the end of his last nuclear agreement with the United States.
"The development of the nuclear triad, which guarantees Russia's security and ensures effective strategic deterrence and the balance of power in the world, remains an absolute priority," President Putin said in a video message, launching Al Arabiya from AFP (23/2).
His speech was delivered on Russia's "Day of Defender of the Fatherland", a holiday that is an opportunity for military glory and Kremlin-sponsored patriotism.
Furthermore, President Putin promised to continue "strengthening the army and navy" and to take lessons from the military experience of the nearly four-year conflict in Ukraine.
All branches of the armed forces will be improved, he said, including "their combat readiness, mobility, and ability to operate in all conditions, even the most difficult ones".
President Putin's statement comes just two days before the fourth anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine that triggered a war that has devastated cities, displaced millions of people, and killed scores on both sides.
Moscow and Washington - the world's two main nuclear powers - are no longer bound by any arms control pact since the New START treaty expired earlier this month.
However, Russia said it would continue to take a "responsible" approach to strategic nuclear capabilities and respect the limits set on its arsenal.
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