Russia warns NATO of nuclear response if Kaliningrad blockaded

Russia has sent a formal diplomatic warning to NATO threatening to use nuclear weapons if the alliance attempts to impose an air or naval blockade on Kaliningrad, a heavily militarized Russian exclave on the Baltic Sea bordered by NATO members Poland and Lithuania. The warning, confirmed by NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte on September 30, stated that Russia would deploy "the entire arsenal of forces and capabilities at its disposal, including nuclear weapons" to defend the territory. The Russian diplomatic document also referenced the possibility of strikes against "decision-making centers" in NATO member states.

Russian embassies in multiple European countries, including the United Kingdom, Ireland, and Belgium, issued public statements this week echoing the warning and accusing NATO of "dangerous and reckless" behaviour. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov characterized these communications as diplomatic reminders to "hotheads in Europe" about Russia's policy position on Kaliningrad, which he said is documented in Russian policy papers.

NATO rejected the accusations and threat in a written response. NATO spokesperson Allison Hart stated: "We strongly denounce the threat of force, including any irresponsible nuclear rhetoric." The alliance emphasized its defensive nature and noted that "none of our activities or exercises pose a risk to any part of Russia." NATO Secretary General Rutte said he does not believe in the threat and urged NATO members to continue supporting Ukraine and investing in defence capabilities.

Experts and officials attribute the warning to broader tensions in the region. Kaliningrad hosts Russia's primary Baltic naval base and is equipped with nuclear-capable Iskander missiles. NATO allies have conducted military exercises in the Baltic Sea in recent months, with more planned for October, and launched Operation Baltic Sentry in 2025 to protect communication cables and pipelines. European leaders and intelligence services have warned that Russia is intensifying hybrid warfare activities including sabotage and drone attacks, and that Moscow could escalate military action against NATO members if it consolidates gains in Ukraine.