Putin Promises Response to Military Moves

Russian President Vladimir Putin says if the United States does increase its military presence in Europe, his nation will respond accordingly.

Speaking in an interview with several G8 correspondents, Putin said a U.S. military build-up in Europe would prompt Russia to target certain military installations with its missiles to ensure national security, Itar-Tass reported Sunday.

Some Russian defense experts predict the United States’ increased presence in Europe could potentially threaten Russia’s security.

Putin also suggested that beyond basic cruise and ballistic missiles, his nation may also use more advance new missile systems.

Meanwhile, the Russian leader was more cordial in a recent letter he wrote to Italian President Giordano Napolitano regarding the state of their nations’ relations.

Russian-Italian relations have attained a level of genuine partnership in recent years, Putin wrote. This applies to politics, trade, cultural and humanitarian spheres. Russia is ready to continue moving along the time-tested course of developing the entire spectrum of relationship.