Seth Moulton’s Statement on the Trump Administration’s Withdrawal from the INF Treaty

“Arms reduction agreements like the INF treaty strengthen our national security and protect our troops and allies, so you don’t just throw them out the window whenever there’s a violation: you make sure they’re enforced. Russia’s violation is a major issue that I was proud to bring to light myself in a hearing with the Vice Chair of the Joint Chiefs last year, the first time the Pentagon admitted the violation publicly. Now we need to enforce the treaty to get Russia in line and protect our NATO allies.

“Instead, by giving up, the Trump Administration is giving in. And let’s be clear: we’re giving in to Putin once again. The administration is also asking for a new arms race, with our NATO allies caught dangerously in the middle."

Trump’s reaction to Russia’s violation is like if the Patriots respond to the first penalty against the Rams this weekend by quitting the game and walking off the field. That’s not how you win a Super Bowl, and it’s not how you win against Russia. The stakes are too high. We should be strengthening our national security by strengthening our NATO alliance. This move weakens both.”

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