Statement on Russia’s decision to revoke its ratification of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty

November 2, 2023 - Ottawa, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada

Global Affairs Canada today issued the following statement:

“Canada is deeply disappointed with the Russian Federation’s decision to revoke its ratification of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT).

“The CTBT has proved instrumental in establishing the global norm against nuclear weapons testing and it is a vital component of international peace and security. Canada deplores any action that endangers this norm and jeopardizes the CTBT’s entry into force.

“Canada calls on the Russian Federation to reverse its decision, and, in the interim, fully expects it to continue to uphold the global norm against nuclear testing.

“Canada will continue to work with the Preparatory Commission for the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization and with its international partners to achieve the treaty’s long-overdue entry into force. Canada calls on all of the eight other states whose ratification is required for the CTBT’s entry into force to make it a priority to do so. Only by working together can the world eliminate nuclear testing once and for all.”