The New START treaty was signed by the U.S. and Russia in April, but has yet to be ratified by the Senate as the year’s end draws near.

I was pleased to read Steve Mistler’s Sun Journal front page article on Saturday, Dec 11, announcing Sen. Susan Collins’ and Sen. Olympia Snowe’s support of the treaty. The article described their initial hesitancy to support the treaty. Ultimately, after careful analysis, and consultation with experts, they both plan to endorse this treaty, which has strong support from national security leaders, present and past.

I appreciate the Sun Journal urging immediate passage of the New START treaty (Nov. 30).

Each day without a functioning agreement with Russia is a security concern. Unfortunately, the treaty is at risk of not reaching a vote in this Senate session, and it appears the chances of ratification in the new Congress next year will be even less likely, based on an Associated Press article in the Dec. 10 Sun Journal.

Our senators are in a position to assist bringing this measure to a vote this week. Let’s ask that they do everything in their power to make this happen.

James Melloh, Auburn