An expert from the RANEPA Institute of Law & National Security, Alexander Stepanov, stated that Russia is prepared to defend the Kaliningrad region against potential threats without resorting to nuclear weapons. Stepanov made these comments while discussing remarks made by Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding a possible NATO attack. He noted the deployment of offensive military infrastructure around the Kaliningrad region as a contributing factor to this capability. The expert's assessment suggests Russia believes it possesses conventional military means sufficient to counter any aggression targeting Kaliningrad. This comes amid heightened tensions between Russia and NATO regarding security concerns in Eastern Europe. Stepanov's statement aims to downplay fears of nuclear escalation in the event of conflict near Kaliningrad. The situation continues to be monitored closely by international observers.