Number: RS21088
Title: Withdrawal from the ABM Treaty: Legal Considerations
Authors: David M. Ackerman, American Law Division 
Abstract: On December 13, 2001, President Bush gave formal notice to Russia that the United States is withdrawing from the Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty because of the constraints it imposes on the testing of missile defense system; and six months later the treaty effectively terminated. The treaty has been in force since 1972. Legal considerations that arise with respect to withdrawal concern whether the treaty allows for withdrawal; if so, the procedure to be followed; and the constitutionality of the President doing so without the involvement of the Senate or Congress. This report discusses those issues.
Pages: 6
Date: Updated December 31, 2002