Washington Summit (1987)

Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty

Reagan and Gorbachev began putting resources into INF Treaty negotiations following the Reykjavik Summit. Savranskaya and Blanton documented these efforts in their 2007 National Security Archive Electronic Briefing Book No. 238. At least a week before the meeting, The New York Times reported that leaders were scheduled to sign a treaty on December 8. The treaty aimed to eliminate shorter-range and medium-range missiles from both nations. Discussion regarding reducing long-range strategic nuclear weapons encountered obstacles during this period. Shultz had barely unpacked his bags back in Washington when word came from Moscow. Gorbachev wanted the summit to take place soon according to Shultz's account. Shevardnadze would be in Washington within two days to see to final details. Most details relating the INF Treaty had already been worked out by the time the summit started. The agreement represented a notable accomplishment of the Washington Summit despite outside complications. The treaty eliminated shorter-range and medium-range missiles as planned for December 8 signing.

When did the Washington Summit of 1987 take place?

The Washington Summit of 1987 took place on the 8th of December 10 between United States president Ronald Reagan and General Secretary Mikhail Gorbachev. The Oval Office hosted discussions from 10:45 A.M. to 12:30 P.M. on December 8.

What treaty was signed at the Washington Summit of 1987?

The agreement eliminated shorter-range and medium-range missiles as planned for December 8 signing. Most details relating the INF Treaty had already been worked out by the time the summit started.

Who opposed the INF Treaty before the Washington Summit of 1987?

Former President Richard Nixon voiced strong opposition to the INF Treaty agreement. Former Secretary of State Henry Kissinger joined the criticism against the treaty terms and commentator William Buckley spoke out against the administration's decisions publicly.

Where were the meetings held during the Washington Summit of 1987?

The Oval Office hosted discussions from 10:45 A.M. to 12:30 P.M. on December 8 while the Cabinet Room held sessions from 2:30-3:15 P.M. focusing on arms control for conventional and chemical weapons. The Family Dining Room hosted a working luncheon from 12:40 to 2:10 P.M.

Why did political pressure mount before the Washington Summit of 1987?

Political pressure mounted heavily in the months leading up to this meeting due to the Iran-Contra scandal generating significant political pressure throughout the year. Reagan failed to win approval for Supreme Court nominee Robert Bork by late October 1987 and the stock market caused trouble during that autumn season.

Washington Summit (1987).

Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty

Summit Schedule And Key Discussions

Strategic Defense Initiative Debates

Regional Conflicts And Human Rights

Conservative Opposition And Political Fallout

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