Russia sends nuclear warning to Nato as tensions rise in the Baltic

BRUSSELS: Russia has issued a stern warning to NATO, asserting it would deploy nuclear weapons if the Western alliance attempted to disrupt Kaliningrad, a Russian exclave bordering the Baltic Sea. In a document shared with NATO, Moscow accused the alliance of adopting a "dangerous and reckless" approach that carries significant risks of direct armed conflict, including the possibility of striking decision-making centers within NATO member states.

NATO, responding to the Russian warning, emphasized its commitment to a defensive stance aimed at countering threats to its members from all directions. The alliance firmly stated that none of its exercises or activities pose a threat to Russian territory and urged Russia to cease unprovoked aggression, irresponsible nuclear rhetoric, and the full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

Nuclear analyst Nikolai Sokov, a former Russian diplomat, noted the growing difficulty in avoiding direct confrontation with Moscow as Western countries continue to support Ukraine through arms supplies, new sanctions, interceptions of Russian ships, military exercises, and intelligence flights near Kaliningrad. He expressed concern about the risk of mutual miscalculation, highlighting the possibility of Russia viewing actions like a blockade of the Baltic Sea as an act of war.

Sokov cautioned that Russia and Europe are on a collision course that demands caution and careful consideration from both sides. However, Europe continues to apply "full court pressure," while Russia has delivered a serious warning that this situation is highly risky. European governments accuse Moscow of escalating tensions through a "hybrid war" involving sabotage and arson, a claim Russia denies.