U.S. has warned allies that Russia may launch a nuclear weapon into orbit this year or a "dummy" warhead to confuse the West. American intelligence agencies are divided on Putin's intentions. He denies the accusation and emphasizes Russia's commitment to the 1967 Outer Space Treaty. Concerns are high in Washington, with Secretary of State Blinken urging Chinese and Indian counterparts to prevent such a deployment. Russian defense minister denies violating the treaty and accuses the West of trying to extract funding and push for strategic talks. The New START treaty, limiting U.S. and Russian weapon deployment, is set to expire in two years.