Practical expression of these efforts can be found in the constructive and far-reaching initiatives of the Soviet Union whose implementation, in our view, would lead to a true about-turn in the development of international relations. Suffice it to mention such unilateral actions of the USSR as the non-first-use of nuclear weapons, a moratorium on all nuclear tests, the temporary cessation of the deployment of medium-range and other weapons in Europe and a moratorium on the launching of anti-satellite weapons. A new and important step aimed at stopping the ruinous course of the arms race can be seen in the Soviet proposals to the United States that there be a total ban by both sides of space weapons and a 50 per cent reduction in nuclear weapons JVM/8 A/C.l/40/PV.S 23 (Mr. Kravets, Ukrainian SSR) capable of reaching each another's terri tory. The USSR has also taken realistic initiatives on questions relating to nuclear medium-range rockets. The international community is entitled to expect that the United States give a positive response to these peace-loving proposals of the USSR. However, we must note that the military-industrial complex in the United States of America continues to step up production of weapons of mass destruction. The United States continues to deploy first-strike nuclear weapons in Europe, to carry out tests of the Anti-Satellite System (ASAT) and to turn a deaf ear to appeals to ban nuclear tests. These actions can be viewed only as a desire to achieve by all means a military preponderance and to violate the existing strategic balance in the world. The question of the use of space has acquired a particular significance in today's conditions. If we do not in good time take the necessary measures to exclude the possibility of the militarization of outer space, it could become a source of mortal danger for all mankind. 
**Analysis**
The text primarily focuses on international relations, disarmament, and the prevention of nuclear war. It discusses specific initiatives taken by the Soviet Union to reduce the risk of global conflict and the concerns about the militarization of outer space. The text also touches on the contrast between the Soviet Union's peace-loving proposals and the United States' continued production and deployment of weapons of mass destruction.

**Category**
International relations, Science and technology