Vladimir Putin has reportedly ordered his military leaders to remove restrictions on warfare, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. This claim is based on intercepted intelligence, suggesting that the Russian president stated 'there are no rules now' regarding aerial bombardments. Zelensky indicated that this order was issued in September and coincided with an increase in attacks on civilian infrastructure, including hospitals and schools.
The Kremlin is believed to be preparing to intensify its assaults on major Ukrainian cities, such as Kyiv, Kharkiv, Odesa, and Lviv. Reports indicate that Russia may target nuclear facilities to disconnect them from the energy grid, potentially increasing pressure on Ukraine.
This escalation follows Ukraine's strikes on Russian oil refineries, ports, and warehouses, which have contributed to rising tensions and anger among Russian civilians due to worsening shortages.
In a related context, Putin has warned that Russia could utilize 'all weapons' in its arsenal in response to perceived aggression from European countries. During a foreign policy forum, he accused the West of escalating tensions through military drills and preparations for conflict with Russia. He emphasized that any direct attack on Russian territory, including Kaliningrad, would prompt a serious response.
Putin did not specify the potential use of nuclear weapons but mentioned that Russia possesses unique arms that would be considered in the event of an attack. Russian embassies in Europe have claimed that NATO is preparing for an air and naval blockade of Kaliningrad, which they described as a dangerous game.
NATO spokesperson Allison Hart confirmed that Russia had sent a written message to the alliance, denouncing the threats of force and emphasizing that NATO is a defensive organization. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte reiterated that the alliance is not targeting Kaliningrad and urged Russia to cease its aggression against Ukraine.
Kaliningrad, situated between NATO members Poland and Lithuania, hosts Russia's main Baltic navy base and is equipped with nuclear-capable Iskander missiles. Western military analysts have suggested that key military installations in Kaliningrad could be primary targets if Russia were to attack a NATO ally.
NATO has conducted military exercises in the Baltic Sea region recently and plans to continue these activities to ensure regional security. European leaders have expressed concerns that Russia may be preparing to strike another country in the coming years, particularly if it achieves success in Ukraine. Rutte emphasized the importance of maintaining support for Ukraine in response to these developments.