NATO responds to Russia's nuclear threats: We remain strong, ready and able to counter any threat

Russia sent NATO a non-paper concerning possible threats to its Kaliningrad Oblast from Alliance member states. NATO responded that it condemns any threats to use force.

"I can confirm that Russia sent a non-paper to NATO and that we have sent a response, noting that NATO is a defensive Alliance and none of our activities or exercises pose a risk to any part of Russia," NATO spokesperson Allison Hart said.

NATO described the nuclear threats as irresponsible.

"We strongly denounce the threat of force, including any irresponsible nuclear rhetoric," Hart added.

The NATO spokesperson said the Alliance has called on Russia to end its unprovoked war against Ukraine.

"Russia's use of hybrid tactics is a sign of desperation. But we will not be dissuaded from our support to Ukraine. We have what it takes to defend every inch of Allied territory and remain strong, ready and able to counter any threat," Hart said.

The Russian embassy in Belgium sent NATO a non-paper warning concerning Kaliningrad Oblast. It contained threats to use nuclear weapons.

Lithuania subsequently described Russia's new threats concerning Kaliningrad as psychological pressure.

The EU is preparing a new emergency security protocol to address threats from Russia, as well as a security strategy that would identify Russia as the main security threat to the EU.

Amid intensified Russian hybrid attacks on Europe, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas plan to present a new security strategy intended to complement Article 4 of the NATO Treaty.