Strategic Offensive Reductions Treaty

Quick Facts: Who was Strategic Offensive Reductions Treaty?

Subject:

Strategic Offensive Reductions Treaty

Known for:

A 2002 treaty limiting US and Russian nuclear warheads, superseded by New START.

Verified Source:

2Day Chrono-Wiki & Primary Historical Archives

Origins & Early Life

The Treaty Between the United States of America and the Russian Federation on Strategic Offensive Reductions (SORT), also known as the Treaty of Moscow, was a strategic arms reduction treaty between the United States and Russia that was in force from June 2003 until February 2011 when it was superseded by the New START treaty. At the time, SORT was positioned as "represent[ing] an important element of the new strategic relationship" between the two countries with both parties agreeing to limit their nuclear arsenal to between 1,700 and 2,200 operationally deployed warheads each.

Career & Major Achievements

It was signed in Moscow on 24 May 2002. After ratification by the U.S. Senate and the State Duma, SORT came into force on 1 June 2003.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

It would have expired on 31 December 2012 if not superseded by New START. Either party could have withdrawn from the treaty upon giving three months written notice to the other.

Chronological Milestones & Life Events

1. 2002: 2002 Milestone — It was signed in Moscow on 24 May 2002.
2. 2003: 2003 Milestone — The Treaty Between the United States of America and the Russian Federation on Strategic Offensive Reductions (SORT), also known as the Treaty of Moscow, was a strategic arms reduction treaty between the United States and Russia that was in force from June 2003 until February 2011 when it was superseded by the New START treaty.
3. 2012: 2012 Milestone — It would have expired on 31 December 2012 if not superseded by New START.

Historical Fact-Check Quiz: Strategic Offensive Reductions Treaty

True or False: “True or false: The SORT treaty was intended to be a permanent fixture of US-Russia nuclear relations, with no planned replacement.”

Answer (FALSE ❌): False. While vital, the treaty was designed to be part of an evolving framework, and it was eventually superseded by the New START treaty in 2011.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Strategic Offensive Reductions Treaty