Space weapons are not subject to any international policies or norms. These weapons can be misused in a variety of ways, including through confusion that could lead to conflict. The United States has already rejected a treaty to limit the use of these weapons, and Russia has done likewise.
International legal instruments that exist don't limit space weapons explicitly
Space systems play an increasingly important role in war and international security. As such, militaries will likely be able to attack or destroy space systems during conflicts. Many countries are investing in missile defense capabilities that could potentially be used as antisatellite weaponry. Israel even indicated that they may use their Arrow system in the future for this purpose. This is still a major problem due to the entanglement of space weapons and missile defense.
Although the Outer Space Treaty restricts WMD use and deployment in space orbit, the treaty does not prohibit the use of conventional space weapons in space. It does not prohibit conventional space weapons equipped with nuclear power sources. It is not clear what rules apply to intercontinental ballistic space missiles.
U.S. rejects treaty to limit them
Russia and China submitted a draft treaty seeking to limit the use of space weapons to the United Nations. However, the United States refuses to sign it due to concerns about space weapons' secretive nature. The Bush administration dismissed it as a diplomatic ploy. The Obama administration also has been reluctant signing the treaty.
The United Nations has committed itself to stopping an outer space arms-race, but it has yet to negotiate a comprehensive treaty to prohibit space weaponization. Although the United States claims that there isn't an outer space arms race, the international community believes that it is time to stop space weaponization.
This treaty requires all states to conduct a legal assessment of any space weapon before it can be used. This review would assess whether the weapon violates weapons laws and principles. However, the treaty doesn't require states to make public their legal reviews.
Russia
Over the past two years there has been much discussion about Russia having space weapons. There are many theories, but some commentators believe that Russia is developing space weapons in response to the United States' aggressive space weapons program. One Russian commentator stated that the program would deter hostile actions with space-enabled weaponry.
Russians are testing anti-satellite weaponry. These weapons are made of aircraft and lasers that hit satellites. Russia is working on a way of shooting down another satellite from its spacecraft. This is no surprise given our dependence upon satellites. But, many countries are calling for a treaty against the development and use of space weapons.
Russia's space program is a vital part of its national security. It is vital to Moscow's nuclear forces. Its early warning satellites are capable of monitoring objects in low-Earth orbits and providing launch data to command-and control centers.