Statement on the
Proposed Intermediate-Range Nuclear Force Reduction Treaty
I
have directed the U.S. INF negotiator in the nuclear and space talks at Geneva
to present to the Soviet Union at today's meeting of the INF negotiating group
our proposal for implementing a double global zero treaty, eliminating all U.S.
and Soviet ground-based INF missiles. Our negotiator will also present an inspection
protocol which details the procedures which we consider necessary to
effectively verify compliance with the treaty.
The
draft we are presenting is a logical progression from a draft text designed to
reduce INF missiles to a specified level to a draft treaty which would
eliminate an entire class of
-- the elimination of all U.S. and Soviet INF
missiles and launchers -- longer range INF missiles and launchers would be
eliminated within 3 years; shorter range within 1 year;
-- a ban on the
modernization, production, or flight testing of any INF missile system;
-- a comprehensive
and effective verification regime tailored to a double global zero outcome.
I
have always made clear my firm belief that not having a treaty is better than
having one which cannot be effectively verified. Accordingly, we are proposing
the most stringent verification regime of any arms control agreement in
history. The most effective verification possible is vital to ensure that an
INF agreement makes a lasting contribution to peace and stability. We will not
settle for anything less.
We
have come a long way in our efforts to remove the threat posed by Soviet INF
missiles. NATO resolve to deploy U.S. INF missiles to counter this unprovoked
Soviet threat, while at the same time seeking negotiations with the Soviets,
laid the foundation for the historic agreement which is now within reach.
Difficult issues remain to be resolved, including verification. We have
presented a comprehensive and effective verification regime. The Soviets have
said they agree in principle with a number of our verification requirements but
have yet to provide some key details. Further, some of the details they have
provided have not met the test of ensuring verification and confidence in
compliance.
It
is up to the