Grigory Yavlinsky, leader of the Yabloko faction of the State Duma of the Russian Federation, thinks that the fact that agreements signed during the Moscow summit of presidents of the RF and the USA Vladimir Putin and George Bush are subject to mandatory implementation represents "a victory of the Russian diplomacy".

In a press interview on Friday May 24, 2002, , Grigory Yavlinsky drew journalists' attention to the fact that six months ago the Americans proposed to conclude a kind of an agreement which would not require ratification by the parliaments of both countries. "Now we should proceed with definite steps, a step forward on the level of declarations has already been made," said Grigory Yavlinsky.

Grigory Yavlinsky also thinks that the Treaty on Reduction of Strategic Offensive Potentials has "an important technical purpose". According to Yavlinsky, this treaty does not solve the problem yet, but it creates "a basis for mutual understanding in this sphere" and does not limit Russia's potential in the field of national defence.

According to Yavlinsky, "in this field, unfortunately, we are limited by our economic potential." However, Grigory Yavlinsky thinks that the declaration on new strategic relations sign by the two presidents is "the most important, though non-binding" document. He also pointed out that the declaration creates a basis for practical work for the development of common progammes both in the field of economy and the development of the anti-ballistic missile defence system, and also in the field of political co-operation.

According to the Yabloko leader, this declaration creates real potential for the conclusion of more close agreements in the military sphere in general.

See also:

Press Release. May 22, 2002. Grigory Yavlinsky expects a breakthrough in military and political issues during the summit meeting of Vladimir Putin and George Bush.

The Door to Europe is in Washington by Grigory Yavlinsky. Obschaya Gazeta, May 16, 2002

Press Release, May 15, 2002. The YABLOKO party: the treaty on a reduction in offensive weapons meets new security requirements and the new spirit of cooperation between Russia and the USA.

Arms Control

Russia - US Relations