Russian official: US anti-ballistic systems to be installed in Romania, Poland violate treaty
The missile defense launching sites that the US will establish in Romania and Poland include systems that violate the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty, according to Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov.
“Everyone interested in the issue, not only experts, but also people who simply follow the news on the foreign policy, are aware of the recent exchange of accusations, including those made publicly. In particular, we believe that a number of aspects of the US behavior directly linked to the destiny of this treaty are a concern,” said Ryabkov, cited by Sputniknews.com.
He added that the missile defense launching sites to open in Romania and Poland use vertical Mk-41 launching systems, which can launch long and medium-range cruise missiles, and this is prohibited by the treaty.
The Russian official said that Washington also expressed its disagreements over Russia’s actions within the framework of the agreement but made no specific claims. He added that Moscow is willing to discuss with US officials.
US Navy officially takes command of Deveselu military base in Romania
Irina Popescu, irina.popescu@romania-insider.com
