Russian President Vladimir Putin warned the West on Thursday that Russia would use all weapons at its disposal, including nuclear arms, if its Baltic exclave of Kaliningrad comes under direct attack.

Speaking at the annual Valdai Discussion Club forum in Moscow, Putin said the issue of employing the full range of Russian military capabilities would immediately arise in the event of aggression against the territory or other Russian lands. He emphasized that Moscow was responding to Western actions rather than initiating threats.

"If it comes to a direct attack on the Russian Federation, in this case we are talking about Kaliningrad but possibly some other territories, of course the issue of use by the Russian Federation of all arms at the disposal of our country will inevitably and immediately be on the agenda," Putin said.

The remarks followed recent NATO naval maneuvers in the Baltic Sea and accusations from Moscow that the alliance was preparing to impose an air and sea blockade on Kaliningrad. The exclave, wedged between NATO members Poland and Lithuania, remains heavily militarized and separated from the Russian mainland.

Putin accused NATO of escalating tensions through successive drills and attempts to intercept Russian vessels. He rejected claims that Russia plans attacks on European nations in coming years, stating Moscow has no intention of striking anyone in 2029, 2030, or 2050 but would respond forcefully to aggression.

NATO has described its exercises as defensive measures to bolster deterrence. Alliance officials have condemned Russian nuclear rhetoric as unhelpful while affirming the bloc's defensive nature.

Kaliningrad has long been viewed as a potential flashpoint due to its strategic location and the narrow Suwalki Gap connecting it to Belarus. Western concerns have centered on possible Russian moves through the area, while Russian officials highlight perceived encirclement.

The warning comes amid ongoing tensions tied to the conflict in Ukraine, with Putin linking Western statements about future war preparations to the current standoff. Russian diplomatic notes to NATO earlier this week reiterated readiness to use the full arsenal, including nuclear options, against any blockade attempt.

Putin noted awareness of nuclear capabilities held by nations such as Britain and France but asserted Russia's unique advantages in its weapons systems.