Russia has delivered an informal diplomatic document to NATO warning that it is prepared to use its entire arsenal, including nuclear weapons, if alliance countries attempt to isolate the Kaliningrad region from the rest of Russian territory.
The document, seen by Reuters, accuses NATO of a “dangerous and reckless course” that carries “high risks of the outbreak of a direct armed conflict.” The text separately refers to the possibility of Russian strikes against decision-making centers in alliance member states from the very outset of such a conflict.
“Russia will be ready to use the entire arsenal of forces and capabilities at its disposal, including nuclear weapons, in order to defend its territory should NATO countries undertake any attempt aimed at isolating the Kaliningrad Region from the rest of the country,” the document says.
NATO spokesperson Allison Hart confirmed receipt of the document but did not disclose its full contents. She said the alliance had sent a response:
“We have sent a response, noting that NATO is a defensive Alliance and none of our activities or exercises pose a risk to any part of Russia. We strongly denounce the threat of force, including any irresponsible nuclear rhetoric. We call on Russia to end its unprovoked war in Ukraine.”
A senior European defense official described the development as “the first such threatening signal from Russia since the Cold War.” Alliance diplomats view the note as an attempt to intimidate European capitals and pressure them over support for Ukraine.
