Russia warns NATO of possible nuclear response to Kaliningrad blockade
Moscow told NATO it could use nuclear weapons if the alliance attempts to isolate the Kaliningrad exclave, while NATO rejected the claim and called for an end to Russia's actions in Ukraine.
Russia has sent a diplomatic note to NATO stating it would be prepared to employ its full range of military capabilities, including nuclear weapons, should the alliance try to enforce a blockade of the Kaliningrad region. The document, viewed by Reuters, described NATO's actions as a "dangerous and reckless course" that could lead to direct armed conflict and mentioned the possibility of Russian strikes on decision-making centers in member states.
NATO responded that it is a defensive alliance and that its exercises do not threaten Russian territory. The alliance urged Russia to end its invasion of Ukraine and to stop what it called "irresponsible nuclear rhetoric."
Russian embassies in several European capitals have also issued statements accusing NATO of escalating tensions through exercises and planning scenarios involving Kaliningrad. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov referred to these messages as reminders to "hotheads in Europe."
A NATO diplomat told Reuters that the Russian letter is an attempt to intimidate Europeans, while a senior European defence official said it is the first such direct threat since the Cold War, underscoring the seriousness of the exchange.