OSCE calls for Russia to reconsider CFE

MADRID, Dec. 12 (UPI) -- Russia's announced pullout from its commitments under the Treaty on Conventional Armed Forces in Europe drew criticism from top officials around the world.

The Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe chairman-in-office, Spanish Foreign Minister Miguel Angel Moratinos, called on Russia to reconsider its unilateral suspension of the implementation of its commitments, OSCE reported.

"The CFE regime has served as a cornerstone for European security for 15 years, and it should continue to do so," Moratinos said in a statement. "The suspension that takes effect today is not good news. The CFE regime has served Europe well, by producing unprecedented transparency, stability and security for all our countries and ensuring a significant reduction in conventional armaments and equipment.

"The loss of the CFE system of limitations, information and verification would be detrimental to all and could have security implications for all of Europe. No steps should be taken that could undermine the viability of the CFE regime or put this landmark regime at risk. CFE states should do everything they can to preserve the treaty, in order to avoid placing these hard-won benefits at risk."

The Moratinos called for a renewal of negotiations in an effort to reaffirm commitment to the CFE Treaty regime.