US Defense Secretary Robert Gates has rejected a Russian proposal that both countries scrap plans to place missile systems in Eastern Europe.

Russian President Dmitry Medvedev said on Thursday that Moscow is willing to reconsider deploying missiles in its westernmost region of Kaliningrad. [CCTV.com]

Russian President Dmitry Medvedev said on Thursday that Moscow is willing to reconsider deploying missiles in its westernmost region of Kaliningrad.

But, provided Washington doesn't position missile interceptors in Poland and a missile-tracking radar in the Czech Republic.

US Defense Secretary Robert Gates has rejected a Russian proposal that both countries scrap plans to place missile systems in Eastern Europe. [CCTV.com]

Gates said the Russian proposal is not acceptable adding that a missile threat appears aimed at Europe.

The Bush administration maintains that a limited US missile system in Europe can help protect the continent against potential attacks by long-range missiles from Iran. Moscow, however, dismisses the claim.

(CCTV November 15, 2008)