If there is an attempt to cut off Kaliningrad from Russia, Russia will be prepared to use nuclear weapons: Putin

Russian President Vladimir Putin has stated that if Russia perceives a direct attack on Kaliningrad—its territory located in the Baltic region—it will use its entire arsenal of weapons.

Putin emphasized that Russia is "not threatening anyone"; rather, he is responding to statements by Western leaders claiming that Russia is preparing for war by 2029 or 2030.

Throughout the week, Russia has accused NATO of preparing to blockade its territory.

Kaliningrad is situated between Lithuania and Poland. Russia has warned that if the West attempts to cut off Kaliningrad from the rest of the country, it is prepared to use nuclear weapons.

NATO has sought to de-escalate the situation, stressing that it is a defensive alliance and calling on Russia to cease its "nuclear threats."

In recent months, Western allies have faced a surge in incidents of so-called hybrid warfare, which Russia is accused of orchestrating. Such incidents have notably increased in Poland and the Baltic states.

Just last week, Poland reported that a Russian helicopter had entered its territory bordering Kaliningrad. Meanwhile, Lithuania stated that its people feel "constantly threatened" by Russia, partly due to drone incursions into its airspace.