Prague regrets Russian suspension of arms control treaty

The Czech Foreign Ministry says it regrets Russia's decision to suspend application of a key arms control pact, the Conventional Forces in Europe Treaty. In a statement, the Czech Foreign Ministry said Russia's move could threaten security in Europe. Meanwhile, a Czech Defence Ministry spokesperson said Prague would react to Russia's decision as part of NATO, where intense negotiations on the matter can be expected. Moscow has been angered by US plans to build parts of an anti-missile defence shield in central Europe. Washington wants to build a radar base in the Czech Republic and to house missiles in Poland.