Bush reiterated his insistence that the plan — designed to intercept and destroy approaching ballistic missiles at high altitudes — should not be viewed as a threat to Russia. In a clear reference to Iran, he said the system would help protect Europe from “regimes that could try to hold us hostage.”

“I view this as defensive, not offense,” Bush said. “And, obviously, we’ve got a lot of work to convince the experts this defense system is not aimed at Russia.”
Putin’s remarks referred to offers by the US to give Russian officers access to the sites, and not to activate the system until Iran tests an intercontinental missile capable of reaching Europe and the US.

Despite the impasse, the two leaders agreed that Moscow and Washington would work together closely in the future on missile defense and other difficult issues.

The two leaders also signed a nine-page strategic framework aimed at keeping relations between their countries on an even keel.

MP/RA

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