operatio nal duty in the European zone has been reduced to 243. This means that it now corresponds precisely to the level that existed in June 1984 when supplementary deployment of our missiles was started in response to the stationing in Europe of United States medium-range missiles. The SS-20 missiles additionally deployed since then have now been taken off operational duty and the fixed structures ~or those missiles will be dismantled in the next two months. This can be verified. It should be added that the old and very powerful ss-s missiles have been totally removed from our inventory and that the removal of the ss-4 missiles continues. This means that the overall number of medium-range delivery missiles in ,the Soviet Union's European zone is now substantially less than 10 or even 15 years ago. All those who are interested in reducing the level of military confrontation have a right to expect the United States to respond by stopping further deployment of its medium-range missiles in the European continent. As for Asia, the Soviet Union has as many missiles there as is necessary to counterbalance the existing United states potential in the region, neither more nor less. If the United States refrains from building up its potential, we shall do likewise. If the situation should change for the better, we shall respond in an adequate manner. Combined with our previous actions, our latest proposals form a set of constructive measures whose realization would genuinely change the course of international relations, and result in the cessation of the arms race on earth and its prevention in outer space. It is now up to the other side to cover its part of the road and to show by its deeds a readiness to reach an agreement. AW/jcl A/C.l/40/PV.S 22 (Mr. Petrovsky, USSR) 
**Analysis**
The text appears to be a diplomatic statement from the Soviet Union, discussing the reduction of medium-range missiles in the European zone and proposing a set of constructive measures to reduce military confrontation and prevent the arms race. The focus is on international relations, security, and military strategy, rather than economic, social, or environmental issues.

**Category**
International relations, Defense