Russia claims right to respond to US missile shield in Europe

Russia has said it reserves the right to take retaliatory measures against the US's activation of a missile defense shield in Europe.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova. Photo: Reuters

"The diplomatic process has been going on for a long time, discussions have been held. Several years ago, a large-scale thematic conference was held with the participation of military experts, representatives of the Defense Ministry, the General Staff, diplomats, analysts and representatives of NATO member states," Tass quoted Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova as saying yesterday. "At the meeting, the Russian side proposed to consider what would happen in case a missile defense system is built and deployed unilaterally."

According to her, Russia then provided a series of parameters, maps and detailed diagrams to highlight the threats that such a system could and could not pose, as well as the benefits of creating a common system that Russia was willing to cooperate with NATO and the United States.

"We have done everything. So today, we do not need to blame ourselves for our diplomatic stance and the concrete proposals that we have sent to our European partners," she stressed. "Given the current situation, we certainly reserve the right to take countermeasures."

The US and NATO on May 12 activated a missile defense shield at an air base in Deveselu, Romania, after years of planning and billions of dollars in investment.Americasaid the Aegis system is a shieldgroundprotect NATO from short- and medium-range missiles, especially from the Middle East.

The Kremlin, meanwhile, says the system's real purpose is to neutralize Russia's nuclear arsenal long enough for Washington to strike Moscow first if war breaks out. However, the US insists the air shield is aimed against Russia.

The command center of the newly established missile defense facility in Deveselu, Romania. Photo: Reuters

According to VNE