Moscow protests to NATO over Kaliningrad: Russia warns it will use its entire arsenal to defend its territory

Russia has sent NATO a protest note through its embassy in Belgium, objecting to what it describes as the Alliance’s “adventurous and irresponsible approach.” According to Moscow, this approach is linked to exercises that would simulate the “isolation” of the Kaliningrad enclave and significantly increase the risk of a direct military confrontation.

In its statement, Russia emphasized that it is prepared to use “the entire arsenal of weapons at its disposal” to defend its territory.

NATO confirmed receipt of the document and said it had responded to the Russian side, rejecting its threats and reiterating that the Alliance is defensive in nature. “I can confirm that we received an informal document, a non-paper, and that we responded by emphasizing that NATO is a defensive Alliance. None of our activities or exercises poses a threat to any part of Russia,” said the Alliance’s spokesperson, Allison Hart.

Hart condemned any threat to use force, including irresponsible rhetoric concerning nuclear weapons. “We call on Russia to end its unprovoked war in Ukraine,” she said.

The NATO spokesperson added that Russia’s use of hybrid tactics is an indication of desperation. She stressed that this would not prevent the Alliance from continuing its support for Ukraine.

“We have the necessary means to defend every inch of Allied territory and will continue to remain strong, prepared and capable of responding to any threat,” Allison Hart declared.