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Politics

Bush: Russia not our enemy

China, Czech Republic also express concerns about U.S. missile-defense in Europe.

By ASSOCIATED PRESS
Published June 6, 2007

PRAGUE, Czech Republic - President Bush on Tuesday accused Russia of backsliding on democratic reforms but promised President Vladmir Putin he has nothing to fear from a U.S. missile-defense shield in Europe. "The Cold War is over, " Bush insisted.

"Russia is not our enemy, " Bush emphasized as relations between Washington and Moscow fell deeper into an icy chill with Putin's threat to retarget rockets at Europe.

In a swift turn of events, China joined Russia in criticizing the U.S. antimissile system. Then, Bush faulted both Russia and China for their troubled records on democracy.

The accusations and finger-pointing created a tense atmosphere for the annual summit of leaders of the world's most prosperous nations, beginning today in the Baltic Sea resort of Heiligendamm, Germany. Even before the missile-shield dispute, the three-day meeting faced disagreements on issues ranging from global warming to aid for Africa.

U.S.-Russia relations are arguably worse than they have been at any time since the collapse of the Soviet Union, with bitter differences across a range of issues. White House officials say they have been surprised by the depth of Putin's anger over the missile-defense plan.

Many ordinary Czechs worry the defense shield could make them terrorist targets. Czech President Vaclav Klaus raised those concerns during a meeting with Bush in the medieval Prague Castle.

"It is very important that we win maximum support for this project of the Czech public who are very sensitive to those issues, " Klaus said, standing alongside Prime Minister Mirek Topolanek.

The Czech Republic would house the antimissile radar system, while Poland would be the site for interceptor rockets.

"The people of the Czech Republic don't have to choose between being a friend to the United States, or a friend with Russia, " added Bush. "You can be both."

Questions? What questions?

On a day he trumpeted democracy, President Bush noted the vital nature of a free press. Then he got a laugh when the press got stiffed. Bush joined Czech Prime Minister Mirek Topolanek and President Vaclav Klaus for a joint statement at Prague Castle before the media. A moderator kept reporters' expectations in check. "This press conference is going to be without questions, " he said. That brought a chuckle from Bush. At the end, Bush thanked his hosts for "a chance to discuss these issues with the media."

Associated Press

[Last modified June 6, 2007, 07:57:43]