Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF Treaty)

The Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF Treaty), signed in 1987 between the U.S. and the Soviet Union, was an agreement to eliminate an entire class of nuclear weapons—ground-launched missiles with ranges between 500 and 5,500 kilometers. The goal was to reduce the risk of nuclear conflict and promote strategic stability. Both countries agreed to inspections and transparency to verify compliance. The treaty marked a significant step toward nuclear arms reduction during the Cold War, but it effectively ended in 2019 when the U.S. withdrew, citing violations by Russia and concerns over missile developments.