U.S. Senator John Kerry called on senators to set aside preconceptions and not create obstacles to the ratification of the arms reduction treaty, due on April 8.

"I know there has been a partisan breakdown in recent years, but we can renew the Senate's bipartisan tradition on arms control and approve ratification of this new treaty in 2010," the Senate Foreign Relations Committee chairman said.

"We can't squander this opportunity to reset both our relations with Russia and our role as the world leader on nuclear nonproliferation. This is a major commitment by both countries to reduce their nuclear arsenals and an important step in solidifying our relationship with Russia. Let's get it done."

Russia and the U.S. have already agreed to sign the treaty simultaneously in Prague. However, strong Republican opposition may delay the ratification of the treaty.

Opposition to the new arms cuts treaty also exists in Russia, where some experts are in favor of unilateral disarmament.

WASHINGTON, March 26 (RIA Novosti)