NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has urged calm after Russia reportedly sent a letter warning the alliance it could use its “full arsenal”, including nuclear weapons, if its territory, including Kaliningrad, came under threat.
Speaking at the Euronews Defence & Space Summit 2026 on Wednesday (30 Sep), Rutte said NATO had responded by making clear it was “a defensive alliance” and that nuclear threats were “absolutely not called for and not helpful”.
Rutte said Russia was attempting to shift attention away from the war in Ukraine through what he described as “hybrid” activities and pressure tactics, adding that NATO would continue supporting Kyiv.
Reports from international media said Moscow’s warning was linked to potential threats against Kaliningrad, Russia’s strategically important Baltic exclave, with Moscow stating that any attack on its territory could lead to a response involving its nuclear capabilities. Rutte said NATO was responding to Russia’s public statements, while noting that the alliance had not disclosed the contents of the letter itself.
The exchange reflects continued tensions between Russia and NATO as the war in Ukraine continues, with both sides seeking to deter escalation while maintaining their respective security positions.
ℹ️ Euronews
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