Washington, 26 May 2000 (RFE/RL) - The U.S. White House says President Bill Clinton does not expect an agreement at his summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin on controversial U.S. plans for a missile defense system. But U.S. National Security Advisor Sandy Berger noted the summit will be the first time Clinton will hold face-to-face talks on the issue with Putin.
Clinton departs Monday on a European tour. He is to arrive in Moscow on June 3. The U.S. wants to amend the Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty so it can deploy a limited shield aimed at defending against possible missile attacks from so-called rogue states. Russia opposes the idea.
Berger also said Clinton plans to urge Putin to stay on the course of reform and to respect democratic rights.
Berger also said Clinton plans to urge Putin to stay on the course of reform and to respect democratic rights.