Russia Warns NATO of Possible Nuclear Response Over Kaliningrad

Russia has warned NATO that it could use its full military arsenal, including nuclear weapons, if the Western alliance attempts to cut off Kaliningrad, according to a diplomatic document circulated among NATO member states.

The warning was contained in a memorandum sent by Moscow on Wednesday, in which Russia claimed it had information suggesting that NATO was preparing an air and naval blockade of Kaliningrad.

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte rejected the warning, saying the alliance is defensive in nature and urging Russia to “stop the nuclear threats.” He also said the Russian threat was unhelpful and suggested that Moscow understood the consequences of a direct confrontation with NATO.

Kaliningrad is a Russian territory located between NATO members Poland and Lithuania on the Baltic Sea. The region is strategically important to Moscow and hosts Russia’s Baltic Fleet as well as nuclear-capable Iskander missile systems.

The latest exchange comes amid growing tensions between Russia and NATO, more than four years after Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

Poland has recently strengthened its air-defence posture following reported Russian airspace incursions, while Denmark has also raised concerns over incidents involving Russian military activity in the Baltic Sea.

• Tweet
• Share
• Share
• Share
• Share