Russia Says It May Deploy Nuclear Missiles in Response to U.S. Weapons in Germany

Sergei Ryabkov, the Deputy Foreign Minister of Russia, stated that Russia may deploy nuclear missiles in Kaliningrad in response to the U.S. decision to station long-range conventional weapons in Germany. The Interfax news agency reported on Thursday, citing Ryabkov, that the Kaliningrad region of Russia, located between NATO member countries Poland and Lithuania, is one of the specific areas focused on to enhance its defensive capabilities. According to the news agency, Ryabkov told reporters in Moscow regarding the U.S. weapon deployment plans: "I do not rule out any options." Last week, the United States announced it would begin deploying weapons such as SM-6, Tomahawk, and new hypersonic missiles in Germany starting in 2026 to demonstrate its commitment to NATO and European defense. Russian President Vladimir Putin stated last month that Moscow would continue producing short- and medium-range ground missiles and would decide on their deployment locations as needed. Most Russian missile systems are capable of carrying either conventional or nuclear warheads. Interfax quoted Ryabkov as saying that Russia has the widest range of options to demonstrate the most effective response to this U.S. action, which also applies to costs. He mentioned that Kaliningrad, the westernmost region of Russia, has long dangerously attracted the attention of its enemies. Ryabkov added that Russia's determination to defend Kaliningrad and push back those who may have invasion plans is one hundred percent, and Moscow will do everything it can in this regard.