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Russia and the US are gearing up for a showdown at the UN today as they prepare to vote on a resolution regarding nuclear weapons in space. The resolution, drafted by the US, calls on countries to prevent a new arms race and comply with the Outer Space Treaty.

Tensions have been rising between the two superpowers after Washington accused Moscow of developing an anti-satellite nuclear weapon to be launched into space. However, Russian President Vladimir Putin has denied any such plans and stated his opposition to deploying nuclear weapons in space.

The 1967 Outer Space Treaty, signed by both Russia and the US, prohibits the placement of nuclear weapons or any other weapons of mass destruction in Earth’s orbit. The resolution will be presented to the 15-member UN Security Council, requiring nine votes in favor without vetoes from the permanent members.

In response, Russia and China are planning to propose an amendment echoing a 2008 treaty banning all weapons in outer space and threats against space objects. Deputy Russian UN ambassador Dmitry Polyanskiy criticized the resolution as “unbalanced, harmful, and politicized” without their amendment.

Meanwhile, concerns have been raised in the US about a potential space-based nuclear weapon being developed by Russia, posing a serious national security threat. The weapon, although not yet operational, could jeopardize the US’s vital satellite network, which plays a crucial role in civilian communications, navigation, military operations, and intelligence gathering. The US House Intelligence Committee has called for the declassification of information on this threat, highlighting the urgency of the situation.