Russia warns of nuclear response over Kaliningrad tensions

Russia has warned that it could use nuclear weapons if NATO tries to isolate Kaliningrad, the heavily militarized Russian exclave between Poland and Lithuania. The warning has added to concern that the Baltic region could become a flashpoint between Russia and the alliance. According to the report, Moscow’s diplomatic message said it could use "the entire arsenal" at its disposal if Kaliningrad were cut off from the rest of Russia. The document also raised the possibility of strikes on NATO decisionmaking centers in a conflict, while NATO said its activities are defensive and do not threaten Russian territory. Analysts quoted in the article said Russia has increasingly used nuclear threats and hybrid tactics to pressure Europe and deter support for Ukraine. Lithuanian officials rejected Moscow’s warning, called it an attempt to divide NATO, and said the country is strengthening its defenses alongside allies.