WORLD : Soviets Disarm Volatile Regions

The Soviet Union has begun removing nuclear warheads from some of its more volatile republics out of concern that the weaponry may fall into the hands of nationalist elements, an Administration official said today.

“It’s the prudent thing to do,” said the official, alluding to the upheavals that have occurred in the Baltic region and in other areas in the southeastern part of the country. The official asked not to be identified.

The Wall Street Journal, which reported the story in today’s editions, said the Soviets have told American officials and experts that they have consolidated control over 33,000 nuclear warheads. The State Department had no comment on the report.