Russian President Vladimir Putin warned that Bush’s proposed missile shield in Europe could create a situation analogous to the Cuban missile crisis. He added, “It’s not the same and we’re not enemies. I can call President Bush my friend. But we’ve put forward solutions and we haven’t yet received any answer.”

BBC: Russian President Vladimir Putin says US plans for a missile shield could precipitate a situation similar to the Cuban missile crisis of the 1960s.

Mr Putin was speaking after a summit with EU leaders in Portugal aimed at deepening ties despite disagreements over human rights and foreign policy.

Russia has long opposed US plans to build missile bases in European states once in the Soviet sphere of influence.

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