Draft Statement of the G7: Commitment to a Nuclear-Free World

A draft reviewed by Reuters for the final statement of the Group of Seven (G7) leaders indicates that the leaders will express their "commitment to achieving a world free of nuclear weapons while providing undiminished security for all, through a realistic, practical, and responsible approach." The statement urges Russia, Iran, China, and North Korea to halt nuclear escalation and adhere to non-proliferation of nuclear weapons. The leaders noted that Russia's rhetoric regarding nuclear issues and its stated intention to deploy nuclear weapons in Belarus are "serious and unacceptable," and called for Russia to return to full compliance with the New START treaty. The leaders commenced a three-day summit today in Hiroshima, Japan. The final version of the statement is expected to be released the day after tomorrow, on Sunday.