Putin Warns Russia Will Use All Weapons to Defend Territory

President Vladimir Putin stated that Russia is ready to use all available weapons, including nuclear ones, if any part of its territory is attacked. Speaking at a foreign policy event, he accused Western countries and Europe of increasing tensions by discussing potential wars with Russia, conducting military exercises in the Baltic Sea, and seizing Russian vessels.

Russia recently warned NATO that it would defend Kaliningrad, a region bordered by Poland and Lithuania, using nuclear weapons if necessary. Several Russian embassies in Europe claimed they had information suggesting NATO was planning an air and naval blockade of Kaliningrad. They criticized European leaders for claiming Russia might attack another country or increase destabilizing actions with drones and sabotage.

NATO spokesperson Allison Hart denied that the alliance targeted Kaliningrad, stating that NATO is defensive and its activities do not threaten Russia. Secretary-General Mark Rutte emphasized that NATO opposes any nuclear threats and urged Russia to stop its war in Ukraine.

Western military analysts noted that Kaliningrad hosts key Russian naval bases and nuclear-capable missiles, making it a potential target in conflicts with NATO. Recent NATO exercises in the Baltic region have included advanced jamming planes capable of disrupting communications and radar.

Rutte called on NATO allies to maintain focus on supporting Ukraine, which has been at war with Russia for nearly five years. He warned that Russia might be preparing to attack another country within a few years if it fails to win in Ukraine.