Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has threatened Estonia with the targeting of Russian nuclear weapons. The threat is a reaction to reports about Estonia's deployment of missile systems with a range capable of striking Russian territory, including Saint Petersburg. Peskov's statement raises tensions on the NATO-Russia line, especially as Estonia, like Poland, seeks to strengthen its own deterrence capabilities in the face of the threat from the east.

Kremlin's Nuclear Threat

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov warned that Russian nuclear weapons will be aimed at Estonia in response to its armament efforts. This statement raises the level of rhetoric.

Extended Range of Estonian Missiles

Estonia is acquiring or considering purchasing missile systems with a range capable of reaching targets deep inside Russia. This is part of a broader strengthening of defense by the Baltic states.

Reaction to NATO's Eastern Flank Reinforcement

Russian threats are a response to NATO's systematic strengthening of its eastern flank, including increased troop rotations and modernization of allies' armies.

Context of Tense Relations

The incident fits into long-standing tensions between NATO and Russia, which have significantly increased since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

Russia has officially threatened Estonia with the use of nuclear weapons, marking an escalation in war rhetoric on the NATO-Russia line. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that in response to Estonia's actions, Russian nuclear weapons will be aimed at it. „Our nuclear weapons will be aimed” – Peskov declared in response to journalists' questions. The threat is a direct reaction to media reports suggesting Estonia is acquiring or considering purchasing missile systems with a significantly greater range than those currently possessed. Since Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014, and especially after the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the Baltic states – Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania – members of NATO, have been continuously strengthening their defense. Their territories are seen as particularly vulnerable due to their direct proximity to Russia and its exclave in Kaliningrad. The new missiles mentioned in the reports are said, according to Russian sources, to allow strikes on targets located hundreds of kilometers beyond the border, potentially reaching such important Russian cities as Saint Petersburg. It is precisely the prospect of a small Baltic state gaining the capability to deliver a strategic strike deep into the rear that has provoked such a sharp reaction from the Kremlin. Estonia, like Poland, is investing in modern missile and artillery systems to increase its own deterrence and defense capabilities. Peskov's statement is a typical element of the Russian strategy of <przypis title=

Mentioned People

  • Dmitrij Pieskow — Spokesperson for Russian President Vladimir Putin, who issued the threats against Estonia.