Russia prepared to use ‘all weapons’ to protect Kaliningrad, Putin warns West

Key Points:

• Russian President Vladimir Putin warned the West against escalating the Ukraine war, stating Moscow is prepared to use all weapons, including nuclear, if Kaliningrad is attacked, though he denies plans to attack European countries.
• Putin's remarks come amid NATO military drills near Kaliningrad, which Russia views as provocations, and follows Moscow's threat to retaliate if NATO attempts to blockade the exclave.
• Despite acknowledging that Ukrainian drone strikes on Russian oil refineries and Black Sea military maneuvers have cost Russia about 1% of its GDP and over 100 ships, Putin remains undeterred and vows to continue Russia's military efforts.
• Putin criticized Ukraine's reliance on Western financial aid, asserting Russia's economy and financial system are secure without external assistance, while also expressing a preference for resolving the conflict through negotiations.
• Budget documents indicate Russia plans to increase defense spending by 27% to $205 billion in 2027, signaling no intention to scale back its military campaign in Ukraine.