Powell says missile defense in the cards though Russia objects

Bush and Putin held nearly two hours of face-to-face talks

By From Major Garrett
CNN White House Correspondent

WASHINGTON (CNN) -- The United States will go ahead with plans for a National Missile Defense system with or without Russia's support, U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell said on Sunday.

Powell's remarks came a day after a summit in Slovenia between U.S. President George W. Bush and Russian President Vladimir Putin, the first for the two leaders.

IN-DEPTH Bush in Europe     ALSO Bush hails 'new era' in relations with Russia     TIME.com Russia doubts U.S. line on NATO     ON THE SCENE Jill Dougherty on Bush and Putin's meeting

Bush, who returned to Washington late Saturday night, did not come away with Putin's backing for the missile defense plan, but said he believes both nations can forge a "new era" in relations.

Powell said he was pleased with the apparently "warm" relations Bush and Putin struck with one other, saying the two were "off to such a good start." But, he said, Bush is committed to missile defense.

"We believe we know what the future needs and that will include missile defense, so we hope that we can persuade the Russians to find a way to move forward with us," he said. "If not, we'll have to move forward on our own. But it's better if we can move forward together."