NATO has voiced serious concerns over Russia's recent announcement of tactical nuclear weapons exercises, labeling the surrounding rhetoric as "dangerous and irresponsible."
NATO spokeswoman Fara Dahlalla delivered these remarks in a statement to RMF FM.
According to the spokeswoman, the Alliance is in a state of high alert in response to these developments.
"NATO remains vigilant," she assured.
In her statement, Dahlalla also reaffirmed NATO's support for Ukraine, noting that "Ukraine has the right to self-defense enshrined in the UN Charter, and NATO allies will continue to support this right."
She emphasized the necessity for Russia to cease its hostilities, stating, "Russia started this illegal war and must end it."
Russia's Nuclear Exercises
The announcement from Russia's Ministry of Defense came on Monday, stating that the exercises involving non-strategic nuclear weapons would occur soon under the directive of Vladimir Putin. The planned exercises are expected to involve missile units from the Southern Military District, aviation forces, and naval elements.
The European Union has also reacted, describing the exercise plans as a continuation of Russia's pattern of irresponsible behavior.
Meanwhile, despite these alarming developments, the US State Department has indicated that there are currently no signs suggesting an imminent use of such weapons in Ukraine.
