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Ghana News Live Blog: Key Updates Throughout Monday, January 26, 2026

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Stay tuned! We’ll refresh this page as new developments emerge across politics, public safety, and civic affairs.


(Last updated: 7:30 pm on January 26, 2026. Check back for more stories.)

Court Dismisses Unauthorized Applicant’s Claim in Daddy Lumba Estate Case

A High Court in Kumasi has struck out an application related to the estate of the late highlife musician Charles Kwadwo Fosuh (Daddy Lumba) after a named applicant, his daughter Charlyn Fosuh, denied consenting to her inclusion in the legal action. The motion for misjoinder was upheld by Justice Hannah Taylor, removing her name from the application seeking letters of administration. Fosuh’s counsel emphasised that she had not authorised any affidavit in her name and preferred the family resolve estate matters privately to preserve unity while protecting her father’s legacy.

🔗 Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/court-strikes-out-unauthorised-applicant-from-daddy-lumbas-estate/

Prominent Figures Challenge Party Delegate Systems at Supreme Court

Elder statespersons including Prof. Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng, Dr. Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe, and Dr. Christine Amoako-Nuamah have filed a constitutional writ at the Supreme Court challenging the delegate-based candidate selection systems used by Ghana’s major political parties — the NPP, NDC, and CPP. They argue these systems disenfranchise ordinary party members by limiting voting rights in internal elections to a small class of delegates. The plaintiffs claim such practices violate democratic principles under the 1992 Constitution and seek rulings to mandate broader participation and compliance by political parties and the Electoral Commission.

🔗Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/prof-frimpong-boateng-nyaho-tamakloe-and-others-sue-npp-ndc-and-cpp-over-delegate-systems/

Minority in Parliament Questions Chief Justice’s Institutional Visits

The Minority in Ghana’s Parliament has criticised Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie’s ongoing visits to state institutions, alleging the engagements resemble a politically motivated “thank-you tour” following his appointment. Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin stated the caucus would boycott a planned visit to Parliament and called for direct engagement with the judiciary on substantive issues. Supporters of the visits say they are aimed at strengthening collaboration across government sectors.

🔗 Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/minority-questions-chief-justices-institutional-visits-labels-them-thank-you-tour/

NDC Government Draws Criticism Over Delay in Passing Anti-LGBTQ Law

The Minority in Parliament has accused the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) of hypocrisy and stalling on the anti-LGBTQ Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, which they say was championed by the party while in opposition. Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin highlighted that despite previous advocacy, the government has been quiet on advancing the bill a year after assuming office, using procedural delays as justification. Critics argue this represents a departure from earlier commitments made during electoral campaigns.

🔗 Read more: https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/politics/Minority-calls-out-NDC-over-delay-in-passage-of-anti-LGBTQ-law-2018944

Ghana Law Society Postpones Press Conference Amid Legal Battle

The President of the Ghana Law Society (GLS), Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, has postponed a scheduled press conference due to an ongoing legal dispute. This follows a high court injunction application challenging the GLS’s recent accreditation and its claimed authority to issue practising licences — functions traditionally held by the Ghana Bar Association and General Legal Council. The postponement adds complexity to the unfolding legal tussle within Ghana’s legal profession. Read more: https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/Ghana-Law-Society-postpones-press-conference-over-pending-lawsuit-2018942


(Last updated: 2:30 pm on January 26, 2026. Check back for more stories.)

Felix Kwakye: No Special Treatment for Ken Ofori-Atta Under the Law

Ken Ofori-Atta

Government Communications Minister Felix Kwakye Ofosu has stated that former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta cannot receive preferential treatment amid ongoing investigations into his tenure. Speaking on JOYNEWS’ AM Show, Kwakye stated that equality before the law applies to all, including Ofori-Atta, who faces probes by the Office of the Special Prosecutor over alleged financial mismanagement. He noted legal recourse exists for any unlawful institutional actions, amid Ofori-Atta’s detention by U.S. ICE following visa revocation. The comments follow public debates on fairness and potential extradition issues.
Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/ken-ofori-atta-cannot-receive-special-treatment-under-the-law-felix-kwakye/

Police Bust Suspected Cocaine Haul on Accra-Aflao Highway

A joint intelligence-led operation by the Volta Regional Police intercepted a black Liberty Jeep (registration FK692KF) near Kpotame on the Accra-Aflao road, seizing ten parcels of compressed substances suspected to be cocaine (each ~1kg) and half a kilogram of suspected Indian hemp hidden in the vehicle’s boot. The driver, 46-year-old Nigerian national Charles Adenkule, was arrested and is assisting investigations. The estimated street value of the cocaine is GH¢1,032,650, with exhibits sent for forensic analysis. Regional Police Commander DCOP Wisdom Akorli praised the officers’ professionalism.
Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/police-intercepts-vehicle-in-drug-bust-on-accra-aflao-road/

BREAKING: Abu Trica Re-Arrested by NACOC After Court Discharge

Ghanaian socialite Frederick Kumi, alias Abu Trica, was re-arrested by the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) shortly after the Gbese District Court discharged him when the state withdrew charges. The re-arrest followed an attempt to detain him in the courtroom, which reportedly upset the judge. Abu Trica and co-accused were taken to NACOC headquarters for what his legal team described as possible administrative purposes. The case relates to a U.S. indictment for an alleged $8+ million online romance scam using AI-generated profiles targeting elderly victims.
Read more: https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/BREAKING-Abu-Trica-re-arrested-2018893

Kpebu Alleges Some Ex-NPP Appointees Avoid Prosecution Due to NDC Campaign Funding

Private legal practitioner Martin Kpebu has claimed that certain former New Patriotic Party (NPP) appointees implicated in corruption are escaping legal action because they financed the National Democratic Congress (NDC) 2024 election campaign. In a TV3 interview, Kpebu described Ghana’s political scene as “dicey,” suggesting pre-election “horse-trading” where financial support secures protection. He argued the lack of prosecutions against expected targets points to such arrangements, common across administrations.
Read more: https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/Some-Ex-NPP-appointees-walking-free-because-they-financed-NDC-campaign-Kpebu-2018837

Ghana Deploys Over 130 Health Professionals to Caribbean Under Labour Exchange Programme

Ghana has begun deploying health professionals to Caribbean nations to tackle unemployment among its qualified graduates, with over 130 workers sent to Antigua and Barbuda for midwifery, mental health, and general care roles under a three-year contract. Health Minister Kwabena Mintah-Akandoh explained the Labour Exchange Programme addresses a backlog of more than 80,000 unemployed health professionals, with future batches planned for Jamaica, Barbados, and Trinidad. The initiative creates jobs abroad while filling healthcare gaps in partner countries.
Read more: https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/health/Here-s-why-Ghana-is-deploying-health-professionals-to-the-Caribbean-2018910

Minority Accuses Chief Justice of ‘Thank-You Tour’ Over Ministry Visits

The Minority in Parliament has criticized Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie’s courtesy calls to ministries like Finance and Education, labeling them a “thank-you tour” for his appointment rather than genuine consultations. They questioned his impartiality and stated they would not participate, though open to formal engagement. The visits aimed to strengthen judiciary-executive collaboration, but the accusations raise concerns about perceived bias and judicial independence. Read more: https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/Are-you-on-a-thank-you-tour-Minority-blasts-Chief-Justice-over-ministry-visits-2018909


(Last updated: 8:00 am on January 26, 2026. Check back for more stories)

American Streamer IShowSpeed Lands in Ghana to Massive Airport Welcome

IShowSpeed

American internet sensation IShowSpeed touched down at Kotoka International Airport on January 26, 2026, sparking scenes of excitement as stunt riders and crowds gathered in the precinct. The 21-year-old content creator’s arrival, part of his African tour following Nigeria, received support from the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA). GTA Deputy CEO Abeiku Santana shared enthusiasm on X, highlighting planned cultural and fun activities to ensure a memorable visit. The lively atmosphere quickly went viral online.

Read more: https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/entertainment/Watch-scenes-at-Kotoka-International-Airport-as-American-streamer-IShowSpeed-arrives-in-Ghana-2018817

Ghana Cedi Emerges as Africa’s Top-Performing Currency in 2025 – IMF Data

IMF analysis ranks the Ghana cedi as the best-performing currency in Africa for 2025, appreciating over 40% against the US dollar across more than 20 major economies. This outperformance stems from Bank of Ghana policies and IMF-supported reforms, bolstered by reserves nearing US$14 billion by year-end. The strength signals potential for further stability measures in 2026. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/ghana-cedi-best-performing-currency-in-africa-for-2025-imf/

Devastating Fire Engulfs Mechanic Shops at Sofoline, Destroys Over 100 Vehicles

A massive fire swept through mechanic shops in Sofoline, Kwadaso Municipality (Ashanti Region), around 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, destroying more than 100 vehicles, engines, and upholstery materials. No casualties were reported, though the cause remains unknown—some artisans suspect refuse burning. The incident has caused significant economic losses for local artisans. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/fire-sweeps-through-mechanic-shops-at-sofoline-destroys-over-100-vehicles/

Court Remands Man Over TikTok Claims of Military Plot to Assassinate President Mahama

Ahmed Hassan Abdul Razzaq, a 30-year-old laundry attendant, was remanded into police custody by an Accra court without plea after posting a TikTok video alleging two sergeants planned to kill President John Dramani Mahama. Charged with publishing false news to cause fear and panic, he admitted seeing the claim online but could not substantiate it. He returns to court on February 9, 2026. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/court-remands-man-claiming-a-military-plot-to-kill-president-mahama/

President Mahama Expresses Shock at Rapid Economic Turnaround

President John Dramani Mahama described Ghana’s swift economic recovery as surprising and beyond expectations, noting he anticipated at least two years for visible progress. Inflation fell from 23.8% to 5.4%, and the cedi appreciated 37% in one year, earning praise from IMF and World Bank observers as a model of prudent management and discipline. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/we-are-all-shocked-and-surprised-at-the-quick-turnaround-of-ghanas-economy-mahama/

Electoral Commission Confirms Full Readiness for NPP Presidential Primary

The Electoral Commission assured complete preparedness for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential primary on January 31, 2026, with logistics underway: ballot papers secured, materials distribution starting January 27 to regions and constituencies, and voter albums for delegates received. The process promises transparency and credibility. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/ec-assures-readiness-ahead-of-npp-presidential-primary-on-january-31/

Registrar of Companies Announces Fee Increases Effective February 2

The Office of the Registrar of Companies will raise service fees from February 2, 2026, per the Fees and Charges (Miscellaneous Provisions) Regulations, 2025 (L.I. 2512). The adjustment aims to ensure sustainable operations and better customer experience. Full revised fee details will be available at ORC offices and online. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/registrar-of-companies-to-increase-fees-from-february-2/.

Nollywood Star Tonto Dikeh Announces Reconciliation with Ex-Husband After 10 Years

Nollywood actress Tonto Dikeh has publicly revealed her reconciliation with ex-husband Olakunle Churchill, the father of her child, a decade after their separation filled with public disputes and personal challenges. Sharing the news on Instagram, Dikeh attributed the healing to divine intervention, humility, and prayer, writing that “what human effort could not fix, God healed by salvation” and transforming their relationship into one of peace and respect. She urged followers facing difficulties to persist in faith, love, and trust in God. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/tonto-dikeh-reconciles-with-ex-husband-10-years-after-separation/

Gold Surpasses $5,000 per Ounce for the First Time in Historic Rally

Gold prices have broken the $5,000 (£3,659) barrier per ounce for the first time, extending a remarkable 2025 rally of over 60%. Factors driving the surge include geopolitical tensions (US-NATO over Greenland, US tariffs threats), persistent inflation, a weaker US dollar, central bank purchases, anticipated Fed rate cuts, ongoing wars, and gold’s role as a safe-haven asset amid financial uncertainty. Experts note its scarcity and cultural demand in markets like India and China. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/gold-tops-5000-for-first-time-ever-adding-to-historic-rally/

Worst Floods in a Generation Devastate Mozambique: Thousands Affected, Dozens Dead

Mozambique is grappling with its worst floods in a generation, triggered by heavy rains and the Inkomati River bursting its banks, affecting over 642,000 people since early January, mainly in southern and central regions including Maputo and Gaza provinces. At least 12 deaths have been confirmed from the floods (part of 125 total rainy-season fatalities), with tens of thousands rescued—some clinging to treetops or rooftops—amid submerged homes, farmlands, and roads. International teams from Brazil, South Africa, and the UK are assisting, though challenges persist with food shortages and isolated communities. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/people-cling-to-treetops-as-worst-floods-in-a-generation-sweep-mozambique/

Reckless Driving and Overspeeding Drive Surge in Ghana’s 2025 Road Crashes – NRSA

Ghana recorded 14,743 road traffic crashes in 2025, resulting in 2,949 deaths—a sharp rise from the previous year—according to the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA). Director-General Abraham Amaliba attributed the increase primarily to reckless driving and overspeeding, stressing driver behavior over road conditions. Funding constraints limited the Stay Alive campaign, but renewed efforts are expected with the Road Maintenance Fund. Read more: https://citinewsroom.com/2026/01/reckless-driving-overspeeding-behind-surge-in-2025-road-crashes-nrsa/

Ghana Urged to Speed Up Shift to Clean Transport for Climate and Health Gains

The UK–Ghana Jobs and Economic Transformation (JET) Programme has called for accelerated adoption of clean transport under the Ghana Automotive Development Policy (GADP). With transport contributing nearly half of energy-related emissions and air pollution costing $3 billion annually (4% of GDP), the push aims to cut greenhouse gases, improve public health, create jobs, and meet Ghana’s 15% emissions reduction target by 2030. Recommendations include fast-tracking GADP revisions for electric vehicles and supporting financing for low-emission fleets. Read more: https://citinewsroom.com/2026/01/ghana-urged-to-accelerate-clean-transport-transition/

Kennedy Agyapong Stands Firm: No Apology for Calling Bawumia a ‘Liar’

NPP flagbearer aspirant Kennedy Agyapong has defiantly refused to retract or apologise for labeling Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, his main opponent, a “liar,” responding to pressure with:

“I will not apologise. I will apologise my foot. I don’t fear anybody.”

The controversy arose amid the NPP’s Peace Pact signing for unity, where Agyapong resisted until document errors were fixed. His campaign denied circulating fake apology reports, as the row risks deepening party divisions ahead of primaries. Read more: https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/I-will-apologise-my-foot-Kennedy-Agyapong-defiant-over-Bawumia-is-a-liar-claim-2018820

Ghana Armed Forces Dismiss HIV-Positive Claims Among Recruitment Applicants as ‘Fake News’

The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has strongly refuted circulating reports alleging that approximately 60 percent of applicants undergoing military medical screening tested HIV positive. In an official statement, GAF described the claims—first published by classfmonline.com—as completely false and misleading. The military emphasized that the ongoing recruitment medical screening process has not yet concluded, and no results have been released or declared to date. GAF warned that such misinformation undermines public trust and the integrity of the institution, vowing to trace the originators while urging media outlets to verify information from credible sources before publication. Read more: https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/GAF-breaks-silence-on-alleged-HIV-positive-claims-among-applicants-2018814

One Killed, Two Injured in Truck Overturn Accident at Breku Forest on Accra-Kumasi Highway

A tragic road accident claimed one life and left two others injured when a cement-laden Howo Sinotruk truck (registration AS-4114-24) overturned in Breku Forest near the Pra River along the Accra-Kumasi Highway on Sunday, January 25, 2026. The truck sustained severe damage to its front section. A joint rescue operation by the Ghana National Fire Service teams from Konongo-Odumase and Juaso, led by Siaw Richardson, successfully extricated the injured victims, who were rushed to Juaso Government Hospital via ambulance (GV-589-20). The body of the deceased was recovered and handed over to the police for further action. The cause of the crash remains under investigation. Read more: https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/regional/One-killed-2-injured-in-Breku-forest-accident-2018821

Last updated: 8:00 am on January 26, 2026. Check back for more updates

Global Update

How Ghana Appears in Newly Unsealed Jeffrey Epstein Court Documents

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Newly unsealed court documents from the Jeffrey Epstein civil case, made public in early February 2026, contain several references to Ghana.

The mentions, however, do not accuse any Ghanaian citizens or officials of wrongdoing or direct involvement in Epstein’s criminal activities. They appear in depositions, flight logs, and witness statements related to Epstein’s international travel and business dealings in the early 2000s.

According to summaries published by GhanaWeb on February 13, 2026, the references primarily involve:

  • Epstein’s brief business and travel connections to West Africa during that period
  • A former high-profile associate of Epstein who had commercial interests or meetings linked to Ghana
  • Passing mentions of Ghana in the context of broader African financial or investment discussions Epstein pursued

None of the documents implicate current or former Ghanaian government officials, business leaders, or private citizens in any criminal conduct. The references are largely contextual and do not form part of the core allegations against Epstein or his co-conspirators.

Ghanaian authorities have not issued an official comment on the disclosures. Legal and diplomatic experts note that the mentions appear incidental and do not trigger any immediate investigative action under Ghanaian law.

The files are part of the long-running civil defamation lawsuit brought by Virginia Giuffre against Ghislaine Maxwell, with thousands of pages unsealed in stages since 2024.

The Epstein case continues to generate global headlines, with new batches of documents periodically revealing names, travel records, and financial connections. While the Ghana references have sparked online discussion in the country, analysts caution against over-interpretation, as the documents do not suggest any Ghanaian participation in Epstein’s sex-trafficking network.

The latest unsealing adds to the ongoing public fascination and scrutiny surrounding Epstein’s elite network, even years after his 2019 death in custody.

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Global Update

King Charles to Host Nigerian President Bola Tinubu for State Visit in March 2026 – First in 37 Years

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Buckingham Palace has announced that King Charles III and Queen Camilla will welcome President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu for a two-day state visit to the United Kingdom from March 18 to March 19, 2026.

The visit, centered at Windsor Castle, marks the first official state visit by a Nigerian president to the UK in 37 years—the last being in 1989 under military leader Gen. Ibrahim Babangida.

The announcement, made on February 7, 2026, follows the high-profile private trip by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle to Nigeria in May 2024, where the couple participated in Invictus Games events, mental health initiatives, and cultural engagements. While Palace officials have not drawn a direct connection, the timing adds symbolic resonance to the strengthening of UK-Nigeria ties amid ongoing Commonwealth cooperation and bilateral diplomacy.

The state visit will include traditional ceremonial elements—such as a formal welcome, bilateral meetings with King Charles, a state banquet, and engagements highlighting shared priorities in trade, security, education, climate action, and cultural exchange. President Tinubu previously met King Charles at Buckingham Palace in September 2024 and during the COP28 summit in Dubai in 2023.

The visit reflects the UK’s renewed emphasis on deepening partnerships with African nations under the Labour government, with Nigeria—Africa’s largest economy and a key Commonwealth member—playing a central role. It also underscores continued diplomatic momentum following recent UK engagements with other African leaders.

No detailed program has been released yet, but officials say the visit will reinforce long-standing historical, economic, and people-to-people links between the two countries.

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Global Update

A Major US-Russia Nuclear Treaty Expired on February 5, Now Stalled Talks Has Plunged the World into Heightened Nuclear Risk

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As the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (New START) officially expired on February 5, 2026, the world enters a period of heightened uncertainty.

Without binding limits on the nuclear arsenals of Russia and the United States—the two largest nuclear powers, global nuclear risks have been heightened significantly.

The treaty, which capped deployed strategic warheads and delivery systems, has been a cornerstone of global arms control since 2010, but its lapse follows years of compliance disputes, geopolitical tensions, and failed extension efforts.

Current Status and Outlook

The treaty’s expiration leaves no formal constraints on the deployment of intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs), and heavy bombers capable of delivering nuclear warheads. In September 2025, Russian President Vladimir Putin signaled Russia’s willingness to voluntarily adhere to the treaty’s limits for one year post-expiration, provided the US reciprocates. The US responded positively but, as of early February 2026, had not issued an official reply, according to Kremlin sources.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov warned that “in a few days, the world may find itself in a more dangerous situation than before,” stressing the urgency for dialogue.

Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov attributed the crisis to longstanding issues, including US allegations of Russian non-compliance and broader geopolitical frictions stemming from the Ukraine conflict. Analysts view the outlook as precarious: without renewal, both nations could resume unconstrained nuclear buildups, potentially sparking a new arms race and undermining global stability. Efforts for compartmentalized talks—separating arms control from other disputes—have stalled, with Russia insisting on addressing NATO’s nuclear capabilities, including those of France and the UK.

Breaking Down the Treaty: Weapons and Limits

New START regulated strategic offensive arms, focusing on nuclear warheads, delivery vehicles (ballistic and cruise missiles, air-dropped bombs), and launch platforms with ranges over 5,500 km. Covered systems included:

  • ICBMs: US models like Minuteman II–III and Peacekeeper; Russian variants such as Topol-family, R-36M, and RS-24 Yars.
  • SLBMs: US Trident II; Russian R-29R, R-39, R-39RM, and R-30.
  • Heavy bombers: Russian Tu-95MS and Tu-160; US B-52G, B-52H, B-1B, and B-2A.

Limits were set at no more than 700 deployed delivery vehicles, 1,550 deployed warheads, and 800 deployed and non-deployed launchers and bombers. Compliance was monitored through a Bilateral Consultative Commission and on-site inspections, though tactical nuclear weapons, missile defenses, and non-nuclear strategic arms (e.g., hypersonic missiles) were excluded.

Brief History of the Treaty

Signed on April 8, 2010, in Prague by Russian President Dmitry Medvedev and US President Barack Obama, New START replaced the 1991 START I and 2002 SORT treaties. It entered force in 2011 and was hailed as a key achievement in post-Cold War arms control.

By February 2018, both parties reported compliance: Russia with 527 deployed vehicles, 1,444 warheads, and 779 launchers/bombers; the US with similar figures. The treaty was extended in February 2021 by the Biden administration without amendments, set to expire on February 5, 2026.

Compliance Disputes and Alleged US Violations

Russia has accused the US of violations, claiming the US illegitimately excluded 56 Trident II SLBM launchers and 41 B-52H bombers from counts, resulting in an excess of 101 delivery vehicles. As of September 1, 2022, US data (659 deployed vehicles, 1,420 warheads, 800 launchers/bombers) was disputed by Moscow as inaccurate. On January 31, 2023, the US accused Russia of non-compliance by denying inspections and postponing consultations.

China’s Position on New START

China has repeatedly declined invitations to join, arguing its nuclear arsenal is approximately 20 times smaller than those of Russia and the US. Beijing has stated it would consider participation only if the superpowers reduce their stockpiles to China’s level.

Extension Efforts and the Crisis

The 2021 extension was straightforward, but relations deteriorated amid the Ukraine conflict. Inspections, paused during the COVID-19 pandemic, were not resumed due to US sanctions, airspace closures, and visa denials for Russian inspectors. In June 2023, the US froze nuclear data sharing with Russia. US proposals for “compartmentalized” talks—isolating arms control from Ukraine—were rejected by Russia.

In July 2025, US President Donald Trump advocated for trilateral limits with Russia and China, but progress stalled.

Russia’s Suspension and Reasons

On February 21, 2023, Putin announced Russia’s suspension (not withdrawal) of participation, citing:

  • Western arms supplies to Ukraine and targeting assistance against Russian bases.
  • US and NATO aims to strategically defeat Russia.
  • The need to include French and UK arsenals in discussions.
  • US obstacles to inspections.
  • US considerations for resuming nuclear tests.

The suspension highlighted deepening mistrust, with Russia maintaining it could return if conditions improve.

The expiration of New START on February 5, 2026, without a successor risks eroding decades of arms control progress, potentially escalating global nuclear tensions. Experts urge renewed dialogue to prevent an arms race, though geopolitical divides remain a formidable barrier.

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