Russia Warns of Military Response if US Deploys Missile Shield

[WhiteHouseForum]

What to make of Russia's recent reaction to the proposed missile defense shield in the Czech Republic?

I have mixed feelings about this. On one hand, I can see why Russia would be concerned about this. Although our official position is that the shield is to protect our interests in Europe against potential missile attacks by "rogue" states, it could also be an instrument in any pre-emptive military action. I don't think it would ever be used for such a purpose but to a paranoid nation (of which I think Russia is one) it could throw up red flags.

I see it somewhat analogous to the Cuban missile crisis in that the Czech Republic is "in their backyard". How would we react if Russia reach some sort of agreement with a nation like Venezuela to place nukes in that country? Would we, as a nation, support military action to prevent such a move?

Having said that, I see missile defense as a natural military progression. It is going to happen and will be continually refined. With more and more countries gaining long range missile technology (as the recent Iranian missile "tests" show), it would be foolish to not develop and deploy this technology. And in fact, as was the case with nukes it may lead to greater peace; albeit at the risk of triggering another arms race.

Now back to the question at hand...should we ignore Russia's concerns and stated threats by moving forward with deploying this technology in Russia's backyard? I say we call their bluff. And if it isn't a bluff, then it just reinforces the need for such systems.