Introduction
The contemporary nuclear order is undergoing significant transformation, marked by intensifying great power competition, rapid technological change, and weakening arms control frameworks. Against this backdrop the meetings of the Conference on Disarmament (CD) started on 19 January 2026. The high level segment of CD took place from 23 to 27 February 2026, with representatives of member states delivering the official positions. Their statements reflected shifting dynamics, as major nuclear powers articulated increasingly divergent views on the future of arms control, strategic stability, and non proliferation. At the core of these debates was the question of transition from bilateral to multilateral arms control. The United States has emphasized on including China in future arms control discussions, Beijing and Moscow have advanced alternative approaches centered on their interests. This Strat view examines the positions articulated by key stakeholders at the CD, evaluates the prospects for multilateral arms control in a multipolar world, and assesses the emerging challenges that are reshaping the global nuclear order. The article argues that the push towards multilateral arms control is structurally constrained by deep asymmetries in nuclear capabilities, divergent strategic priorities, and growing geopolitical mistrust among great powers. As a result, prospects for comprehensive multilateral agreements remains limited, and the CD should serve as a platform for incremental risk-reduction measures.
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