The U.S. announced plans in January to deploy interceptor missiles in Poland and a missile defense radar in the Czech Republic as part of its missile shield aimed at countering possible threats from "rogue states" such as Iran and North Korea.
Speaking with NATO Secretary General Jaap de Hoop Scheffer at his ranch in Crawford, Texas, Bush reiterated that the defense shield in Europe is not directed against Russia, but against countries which could affect stability and peace in Europe, and said he would continue to reach out to Russia to explain Washington's motives.
Moscow has repeatedly condemned the plan, claiming that it could be a "destabilizing factor" and could threaten Russia's national security, and warned that "appropriate measures" would be taken in response.
