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NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said Russia would face “devastating consequences” if it decided to use nuclear weapons against Ukraine.
Speaking at a press conference in Brussels, Rutte commented on the joint Russian-Belarusian nuclear drills that began earlier this week.
“They know that if this happens, the consequences will be devastating,” Rutte said when asked about the possibility of Russia using nuclear weapons against Ukraine.
He also stressed that NATO is closely monitoring the exercises.
The drills, launched on May 18, involve Russian and Belarusian missile forces and aviation units under the command of the Belarusian General Staff. Troops are reportedly practicing the transport and deployment of nuclear munitions, as well as operations in various regions across Belarus.
Belarusian authorities insist the exercises are not directed against third countries.
Analysts from the Institute for the Study of War believe Russia is using the nuclear exercises as a pressure tool against Ukraine’s allies while attempting to project strength amid difficulties on the battlefield.
