Experts: US, Russia face tough arms control talks

Watch Video

Play Video

Russian military experts say Moscow and Washington must still overcome key stumbling blocks in negotiating a new nuclear arms reduction treaty.

Two retired Russian Generals welcomed U.S. President Barack Obama's decision to scrap the previous administration's plan for a land-based missile shield in Eastern Europe. But they think the decision has only removed one key obstacle in the arms control talks.

Viktor Yesin, Retired Russian General, said, "What is important is to sign the treaty, and then at the signing ceremony the two presidents can make a political statement they will adhere to the provisions of the treaty until its ratification. This is how matters are conducted in the diplomatic arena."

Experts say Russian and US Negotiators are also locked in arguments on other issues as they negotiate an agreement to succeed the 1991 Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty, or START I, which expires on December 5th.

The parties still disagree on how to count nuclear weapons that would be subject to cuts, as well as rules for inspections.