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Mr. KERRY. Mr. President, this amendment is unnecessary because, as General Chilton, who is the commander of U.S Strategic Command, said:
I can say with confidence that this treaty does not constrain any current or future missile defense.
Secretary Gates has said that what the Russians wanted to achieve was a restraint. He said this treaty doesn't accomplish that for them.
Even though the language is completely nonbinding, has no requirement in it whatsoever, this amendment requires us to go back to Russia, renegotiate the treaty, open whatever advantages or disadvantages they may perceive since the negotiation exists, and we would go through a prolonged negotiation. We have no verification whatsoever today because that ceased on December 5 of last year. We need to hold this treaty intact and pass it.
I yield whatever remaining time I have to the chairman of the Armed Services Committee.
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