Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty

The Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty was an agreement signed in 1987 between the United States and the Soviet Union to eliminate all intermediate-range and shorter-range nuclear missiles. Its aim was to reduce the risk of nuclear conflict in Europe and enhance global security. The treaty effectively banned missiles with ranges between 300 and 3,400 miles. It marked a significant step in Cold War de-escalation, fostering trust and cooperation. However, the treaty was abandoned in 2019, with tensions rising as both countries accused each other of violations and a changing global security landscape.