Harris says Russia's anti-satellite test was "irresponsible"

• Russia's test and ensuing debris threatened the ISS and forced its crew to shelter, NASA administrator Bill Nelson said.
• Russia's Defense Ministry later confirmed the missile test but denied having endangering the ISS.

What they're saying: "Over the past weeks and months, I've spoken with heads of state and governments about our priorities in space. In these conversations, the opportunity for space as been clear, as has the risk," Harris said during an opening speech for the meeting.

• "Without clear norms for the responsible use of space, we stand the real risk of threats to our national and global security."
• "Just last month, we saw what can happen. Russia launched an anti-satellite missile to destroy one of its satellites. By blasting debris across space, this irresponsible act endangered the satellites of other nations as well as astronauts in the International Space Station."

The big picture: Harris said the U.S. should prioritize gaining more signatories on the Artemis Accords, which includes a commitment to mitigate the generation of space debris.

• So far, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Isle of Man, Italy, Japan, South Korea, Luxembourg, New Zealand, Poland, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom have signed the accords.
• Harris said France and Mexico have indicated that they will also sign the commitment.

Go deeper: Russian anti-satellite test reveals dangers of space junk