Russian President Dmitry Medvedev sent a message to the heads of member states of the Russia-NATO Council (NRC), in which he outlined Russia’s position in relation to the European missile defense system (ABM).

“The message notes that the European missile defense system can become truly effective and viable only if Russia participates in it on an equal basis. It also emphasizes the need to reliably guarantee that the anti-missile capabilities deployed in Europe will not undermine strategic stability and will not be directed against any of the parties,” the Kremlin press service quotes the text of the message.

The head of the Russian Federation confirmed the position voiced on November 20, 2010 at the RNC summit in Lisbon. According to this position, Russia is ready to take on part of the responsibility for maintaining strategic stability and security, including the formation of a joint missile defense system in Europe. In his message, the President once again stated open opportunities for building a strategic partnership based on the principles of equality, indivisibility of security, mutual trust, transparency and predictability.

The last meeting of the NRC at the chief of staff level was held in Brussels in early May 2011. From Russia, the Chief of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces, Army General Nikolai Makarov, took part in it. He, in particular, stated that Moscow is ready to discuss any constructive proposals for participation in the European missile defense system, but NATO must give Russia guarantees that the system being created will not threaten the nuclear potential of the Russian Federation.

Medvedev: European missile defense can only be effective with the participation of Russia