Dmitry Medevedev has once again denounced U.S. plans to deploy a missile defence shield in Eastern Europe, saying Russia is forced to seek an adequate response.
Speaking to Chinese journalists on the eve of his Asian tour, the Russian President stressed the need for a compromise solution. “We do not like this idea. We think it's redundant and consider the plan a threat to Russia's interests. We offered to consider creating a collective response with our European and U.S. partners to the possible threats. There's been no positive reply. The worst would be to shut all the windows and doors and not listen to anyone. That's why we are open to further negotiations with our European and U.S. partners”. The statement comes after the Czech government on Wednesday approved hosting the U.S. anti-missile radar base on its territory. The U.S. also plans to locate interceptor missiles in Poland. Polish authorities have voiced strong support for the idea, yet asked Washington to finance upgrading the country’s army. The proposed installation prompted strong opposition in both countries and across Europe.