How to Overcome the Impasse on Nuclear Disarmament: An Interview with Thomas Countryman

Abstract

Thomas Countryman was a member of the US Foreign Service for 35 years, retiring in January 2017. He took office as assistant secretary of state for international security and nonproliferation in September 2011 and held that position until January 2017. From October 2016, he simultaneously served as acting undersecretary of state. He was one of the key figures in formulating the Obama administration’s policies relating to nuclear nonproliferation. Since October 2017, he has served as chair of the Arms Control Association board of directors. In this interview, he shares his critical views on the nuclear policies of the Trump administration and elaborates alternatives. For instance, in response to the end of Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty, he suggests that both NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) and non-NATO members in Europe should explore new policy initiatives to “reduce the risk of a sharp escalation in missile deployment,” as they will be potential targets of any new Russian intermediate-range missiles. The interview took place in two parts. Part 1 was conducted on 1 August 2018 and Part 2 on 29 August 2019. The interview was edited and footnoted for the Journal for Peace and Nuclear Disarmament (J-PAND).

Keywords

• deterrence
• inf treaty
• new start
• iran
• north korea
• plutonium