Russia must decide on relationship with Europe, U.K. PM office says

The relationships between Russia and Britain depend on moves of both countries, bur the U.K. wants a constructive dialogue with Russia, the prime minister's office said Monday.

Russia's warning that it could aim its missiles at Europe is worrying, but the bloc will not hesitate in expressing its displeasure, Tony Blair's official spokesman said.

"Europe as a whole ... does have concerns about Russian behavior and will not be shy about expressing those concerns," he said on condition of anonymity, in line with government policy.

"What we want is a constructive relationship, but what the nature of that relationship is as much up to Russia as it is to us."

In an interview with reporters before the Group of Eight summit, Russian President Vladimir Putin said the U.S. plan to base a radar system in the Czech Republic and interceptor missiles in neighboring Poland would require a response which could include training its weapons on Europe.

Blair's office said the proposed American defense system was to guard against "rogue states."

The G-8 leaders are scheduled to meet starting Wednesday in Germany. Blair's spokesman said Putin's remarks will not push climate change or Africa off the agenda.

"If other issues want to be discussed, I'm sure they can be. But the German presidency has established what its priorities are and that is Africa and climate change," he said.