NATO Vows No Retreat as Putin Renews Nuclear Threats Over Kaliningrad

Russian President Vladimir Putin renewed nuclear warnings, stating Russia would defend its territory, including Kaliningrad, with all available means, escalating tensions with Europe. NATO responded firmly, saying it will not retreat before Moscow. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte called the threats "unjustified and unhelpful," emphasizing the alliance is defensive and ready to protect every inch of its members' territory. The European Commission labeled Russia's nuclear rhetoric "irresponsible." Kaliningrad, a Russian exclave between NATO members Poland and Lithuania, is central to the standoff. While NATO denies plans to isolate it, Moscow views any such attempt as a direct threat, prompting European preparations for broader hybrid threats.