Following the expiration of the New START treaty on February 5, Russian President Vladimir Putin declared the nation's nuclear combat readiness an "absolute priority," emphasizing the strengthening of its nuclear triad—land, sea, and air-based systems—to ensure security and strategic deterrence. Speaking on Defender of the Fatherland Day, a holiday marked by military displays and patriotism, Putin stated that military experiences from the Ukraine conflict would inform improvements across all Russian armed forces, enhancing their readiness and operational capabilities. While the US seeks to negotiate a new arms control treaty, it intends to include China due to its expanding nuclear arsenal. Putin assured that Russia would handle its strategic nuclear capabilities responsibly and respect existing arsenal limitations.