Russian state television has warned there will be “no choice but to deploy nuclear weapons” if NATO bases appear in Sweden and Finland.
Sweden and Finland have both confirmed plans to join the alliance in the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
But Moscow seems far from happy with their decision.
According to journalist Steve Rosenberg, one Russian state television channel said: “Their official reason is fear. But they’ll have more fear in NATO.
“When NATO bases appear in Sweden & Finland, Russia will have no choice but to neutralise the imbalance & new threat by deploying tactical nuclear weapons.”
The comments come after British military intelligence said Russia may have lost a third of the invasion force it sent into Ukraine as its offensive continues to struggle in the face of stiff resistance.
In its latest assessment, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) said the Russian campaign in the east of Ukraine had “lost momentum” and was now “significantly behind schedule”.
At a meeting of NATO foreign ministers in Berlin, Foreign Secretary Liz Truss said it was essential to maintain support for the government in Kyiv to help it “push Russia out”.
She said: “ Putin must face a sustained defeat in Ukraine, Russia must be contained and such aggression must never happen again.
“Ukraine’s security must come from it being able to defend itself. Allies must support Ukraine’s move to NATO-standard equipment, immediately providing artillery, training and the required expertise.”
NATO deputy secretary-general Mircea Geoana said the Ukrainians were now in a position to defeat the Russians and win the war.
He said: “The brutal invasion of Russia is losing momentum.
“With significant support from allies and partners in billions of dollars, in military support, in financial support, humanitarian support, we know that with the bravery of the Ukrainian people and army and with our help, Ukraine can win this war.”
Vladimir Putin
PA
Russia's invasion of Ukraine continues
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