A US missile defence site in Romania has become operational. This has angered Russia, which opposes advanced military systems in its former area of influence. 

The missile defence is said to protect Europe from ballistic missile threats. NATO says the threat to NATO allies from outside the Euro-Atlantic area is real. The opening ceremony to mark the start of operations was attended by officials from the US, NATO and Romania. 

The missile defence system is housed in a base built by the Soviet Union, some 180 kilometres southwest of Bucharest. US officials say the Romanian missile shield, which costs 800 million US dollars, is intended to fend off missile threats from Iran, and is not aimed at Russia.