Obama weakening as START ratification looms

Obama weakening as START ratification looms


The START treaty is US President Obama's crown jewel when it comes to his foreign policy objective; however that is in danger due to the GOP holding it up in Congress. If the treaty is not passed before year's end, it will be in major danger of failing once more Republicans join Congress. The Hill columnist Brent Budowsky is optimistic the START treaty will be passed through Congress because many Republicans understand the importance of the treaty

START of a lame duck Congress

START of a lame duck Congress


US President Barack Obama met with Russian President Dmitry Medvedev last week during the G20 summit to assure him that the treaty would be passed through Congress. However, it has been held up in Congress by Republicans and specifically John Kyle of Arizona who is the expert on arms control for the Republican Party. Lawrence Korb points out that the Republicans want modifications to the treaty and he believes the treaty will be difficult to pass in this short time frame.

Obama promises new START

Obama promises new START


The START treaty has been held up in Congress for months because Republicans refuse to ratify it due to concerns over the US military being able to set up strategic defenses. President Obama met with Russian President Dmitry Medvedev during the G20 summit to discuss the matter and he assured President Medvedev he is optimistic the treaty would be pushed through

Fear mongering Republicans blocking START

Fear mongering Republicans blocking START

Following last week's midterm election, the question remains whether or not Republicans will try to strike down key foreign policies the Obama administration put forth, such as the new START treaty with Russia. The divide between the two parties in Congress is more apparent than ever, will the lame duck session in Congress allow the START treaty to pass?