Pentagon Chief Calls Russian Violation Of Cold War Arms Treaty 'Untenable'

According to a report by Reuters, on Thursday, US Defense Secretary James Mattis said that Russia's violation of an arms control treaty was 'untenable' and unless it altered course the U.S. would need to match Moscow's capabilities. In prepared remarks to reporters, Mattis said, "The United States is reviewing options in our diplomacy and defense posture to do just that. Make no mistake: The current situation, with Russia in blatant violation of this treaty, is untenable." Reuters reports that the U.S. believes Russia is developing a ground-launched system in violation of a Cold War treaty that would allow Moscow the ability to launch a short-notice nuclear strike on Europe. Russia has reportedly denied the allegations.