18/06/2021 (Agence Europe) – High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell and the North Atlantic Council regretted on 18 June the announcement of Russia’s withdrawal from the Open Skies Treaty, which will take effect on 18 December. Borrell said the announcement would have a detrimental effect on the global arms control architecture. He considered that the next Conference of States Parties would be an important moment to reflect on the way forward after this withdrawal. He warned that the EU would examine the implications of the decision for its security and that of its partners. The North Atlantic Council recalled that Russia has refused to comply fully with its obligations for several years. He urged Moscow “to use the remaining six months before the entry into force of its withdrawal to reconsider its decision and return to full compliance with the Open Skies Treaty”. (CG)