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NATO continues to take measures for nuclear deterrence and considers it irresponsible to engage in rhetorical games despite threats from Moscow.
This was stated by Patrick Turner, NATO’s senior representative in Ukraine, in an interview with Ukrinform.
Turner emphasized that Russia has long been “rattling” its nuclear weapons and acknowledged that there is a threat that this could destabilize and undermine deterrence measures.
“However, first and foremost, it should be clearly noted that, according to NATO’s latest assessments, there is currently no serious risk of any nuclear escalation from Russia,” he stated.
The diplomat highlighted that the Alliance is observing “what is happening in reality, including Russia’s nuclear doctrine,” and from this perspective, NATO sees no signs of preparation for “any change in Russia’s nuclear policy.”
Furthermore, he reminded that NATO exists for defense and deterrence and has “all the capabilities necessary to protect its allies, and such behavior will not deter us.”
Turner stressed that excessive rhetoric in this area is futile.
“We will continue to be calm and measured in making the decisions necessary to support Ukraine,” he added.
It is known that former NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg announced Patrick Turner’s appointment as senior representative in Ukraine on July 17.
Additionally, on Monday, October 14, the North Atlantic Alliance began its annual nuclear deterrence exercises, Steadfast Noon.
Earlier, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte urged not to heed Russia’s nuclear threats and emphasized that allies currently see no direct risks of nuclear weapon use.
In the EU, commenting on Putin’s nuclear threats, they stated that this is further evidence of his irresponsible behavior and that it will not change Brussels’ position on continuing support for Ukraine.
Read also: Stoltenberg supports strikes on Russia with Western weapons: Ukraine has the right to defend itself
