Moscow pledges response to U.S. missile defense base in Poland

MOSCOW, Nov. 13 (Xinhua) -- Russia will take necessary measures to maintain parity in response to the deployment of a U.S. air defense base in Poland, local media reported Wednesday, citing Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov.

The Polish Foreign Ministry announced Wednesday that a new U.S. missile defense base would be opened in Redzikowo, northern Poland, on Nov. 13.

The base, known as "Aegis Ashore," is part of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO)'s broader missile shield. The shield can detect and intercept short- to intermediate-range ballistic missiles and will be under NATO command and U.S. European Command.

"Of course, the deployment will lead to the adoption of appropriate measures to ensure parity," Peskov said, adding that the new base is a clear example of the advancement of American military infrastructure towards Russia's borders and "an attempt to curb Russia's military potential."

Peskov noted that Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed serious concern over U.S. plans to implement a missile defense system in Europe during George W. Bush's presidency. Back then, the Russian leader said these plans aimed to contain Russia, not a threat from Iran.

The spokesman said the base in Poland confirms the validity of those concerns. ■