Medvedev pledges response to U.S. missile shield

RUSUTSU, (Hokkaido), July 9 (RIA Novosti) - Russia will respond to U.S. missile shield plans in Central Europe, President Dmitry Medvedev said on Wednesday, pledging at the same time that Moscow would not resort to 'hysterics' over the issue.

"I repeat once again, we are not satisfied with it, and I have said this to my counterparts, but of course we will not get hysterical over the issue, but will consider measures in response," Medvedev told journalists after the G8 summit in Japan.

Medvedev also said Russia was dismayed by the Czech Republic signing on Tuesday a missile shield treaty with the U.S., but added that Russia was ready for further talks.

Moscow has strongly opposed the possible deployment by the U.S. of 10 interceptor missiles in Poland and a radar in the Czech Republic as a threat to its security and nuclear deterrence. Washington says the defenses are needed to deter possible strikes from "rogue states."

"At the same time, I would like to say once again that of course we are not closed to further talks and will continue them, including with the participation of our G8 partners and North Atlantic alliance states," the Russian leader said.