US-Russia tension over missile defence escalate

Russia will target US missile defence sites in Europe, if Washington continues with its shield projects there.

That's according to Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, who sees the Obama administration's plans as a threat to Russia's nuclear forces.

The US is planning to set up missile defence sites in Romania and Poland, which Washington says are meant to fend off a potential threat from Iran.

Last autumn, NATO proposed to cooperate on the European missile shield, which Russia agreed to consider. But NATO then rejected Russia's proposal of jointly running the system, and talks stalled.

Medvedev also warned on Wednesday that Moscow may opt out of an arms control deal with the US and halt other related talks if the US proceeds with its shield plans.