Russia has not specifically targeted its missiles at Europe since the end of the Cold War but, asked if it might return to that if the US missile shield plan went ahead, Putin said: "Of course we are returning to those times.
"It is clear that if a part of the US nuclear capability turns up in Europe, and, in the opinion of our military specialists, will threaten us, then we are forced to take corresponding steps in response."
"What will those steps be? Naturally, we will have to have new targets in Europe."
"It is clear that if a part of the US nuclear capability turns up in Europe, and, in the opinion of our military specialists, will threaten us, then we are forced to take corresponding steps in response."
"What will those steps be? Naturally, we will have to have new targets in Europe."