Vladimir Putin stated that Russia would utilize all available weapons if it perceives a direct threat to Kaliningrad, its Baltic exclave. He emphasized that Russia is not a threat but is responding to Western provocations, particularly regarding NATO's military activities in the region.
Recent incidents, including a Russian helicopter entering Polish airspace and increased hybrid warfare in the Baltics, have heightened tensions. NATO has reiterated its defensive stance, urging Russia to de-escalate its nuclear rhetoric amid ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and broader regional instability.