Dimitri Rogozin, Russia’s envoy to NATO, has rejected the proposal by the breakaway Moldovan republic of Trans-Dniester to set up a Russian missile defense system on its territory, to counter US plans to deploy a missile shield in Romania.

Igor Smirnov, leader of the unrecognized republic situated between Ukraine and Moldova proper, had announced on Monday that, if asked by Russia to station missiles within its borders, he would have no objections.

Rogozin said on Tuesday that the move to deploy Iskander missiles in Trans-Dniester could lead to serious regional conflict, adding that there could be no talk yet of bilateral efforts to re-align US-Russian relations, if Moscow continues to learn about US plans to deploy missiles in Romania from the mass media.

"This situation could lead to a rather serious regional argument or even a political conflict. In regard to whether Iskanders should be deployed there or not, Iskander missiles are not a means to be used in such talks," he said.

Russian defence analysts have said that Moscow should not react to Smirnov's proposal, as Transdnestr is merely playing a beneficial political card. Moldova's Foreign Ministry said the country hopes Russia will discuss all these issues with Chisinau.

A U.S. State Department official said earlier that the missile facilities in Romania are scheduled to become operational by 2015 and are designed as protection against "current and emerging ballistic missile threats from Iran".

Ellen Tauscher, US Under-Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security Affairs, has also stated that the US has not requested Bulgaria to adopt elements of the planned US missile defense shield.

The topic has been raised in recent days, but only in an "informal" manner, with "unofficial talks" between the US and Bulgaria.

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