Polls & Research

Russians Reject U.S. Missile Defence Plan

(Angus Reid Global Monitor) - A large majority of people in Russia are suspicious of a United States-backed defence plan being developed in Eastern Europe, according to a poll by the Public Opinion Foundation. 74 per cent of respondents have a negative view of the U.S. missile defence system, and 69 per cent believe it represents a threat to Russian security and national interests.

In December 2002, U.S. president George W. Bush announced plans for the development of initial defence capabilities, which include ground-based and sea-based missile interceptors, as well as sensors located in space.

In 2004, the U.S. approached the governments of Poland, the Czech Republic and Hungary as possible partners in the missile defence system. Poland has accepted to harbour 10 interceptor missiles on its soil, while the Czech Republic will host a specialized radar.

Russian president Vladimir Putin has repeatedly voiced concerns over the defence plan. In March, he declared: "It is unacceptable for European politics to be dominated by a 'blocs' mentality (and for) unilateral projects to be carried out to the detriment of the interests and security of neighbours."

On May 7, Yury Baluyevsky—head of Russia's military council—said the country will take "counter-measures" against elements of the U.S. missile defence shield, adding, "If we see that these installations, which could be set up in Europe, represent a threat, then we will definitely plan actions against them."

Polling Data

Do you have positive, negative or indifferent feelings about U.S. plans to set up missile defence systems in Eastern Europe?

Do you believe that U.S. plans to set up missile defence systems in Eastern Europe present a threat to Russia's national interests?