NATO threatens Russia with 'devastating' consequences if it strikes Ukraine with nuclear weapons
Photo: NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte (Getty Images)
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said Russia would face "devastating" consequences if it dared to use nuclear weapons against Ukraine, according to Rutte’s statement during a press conference in Brussels.
During a briefing, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte was asked to comment on joint Russian-Belarusian exercises involving nuclear capabilities that began this week.
"They know that if that happens, the reaction will be devastating," Rutte said in response to a question about the possible use of nuclear weapons by Russia against Ukraine.
He also stressed that NATO is closely monitoring the conduct of these exercises.
Nuclear drills by Russia and Belarus
On May 18, Belarus began joint exercises with Russia focused on the combat use of nuclear weapons. Missile troops and aviation units are involved, with the drills conducted under the leadership of the General Staff of the Belarusian Armed Forces.
During the exercises, the military is practicing the delivery of nuclear warheads, their preparation for use, as well as operations in unprepared areas across the country. Belarus’ Defense Ministry claims the drills are not directed against third countries.
Analysts at the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) believe Russia is using nuclear exercises as a tool to pressure Ukraine’s allies and to demonstrate strength amid battlefield challenges.
Full details on the latest provocations by Moscow and Minsk are available in the RBC-Ukraine report.
