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Russia's embassy in Ireland and a formal diplomatic note cited by Reuters warned that Moscow could use nuclear weapons if NATO attempted to blockade or isolate the Kaliningrad exclave, accusing the alliance of pursuing a 'dangerous and reckless course' that risks direct armed conflict. NATO rejected the threat, saying its military activities pose no threat to Russia while reaffirming support for Ukraine and commitment to defending allied territory. The exchange reflects escalating rhetoric between Moscow and the alliance amid rising tensions in the Baltic region.