Day 1557 of war: Putin threatens to destroy Kaliningrad attackers

Russian President Vladimir Putin warned anyone considering an attack on Kaliningrad that they will be destroyed. Fighting continues in Ukraine, primarily in the eastern and southern regions, where Russian forces are pressing several front lines.

On day 1557 of Russia's invasion, Vladimir Putin made a harsh statement, threatening to raze anyone who dares attempt to attack the Kaliningrad exclave. According to the Russian head of state, Moscow would respond to such attempts decisively and ruthlessly.

Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine on 24 February 2022. Following an initial failed offensive against Kyiv, the centre of the war has shifted to eastern and southern Ukraine, where fighting has continued for over three years.

The Kaliningrad issue has become particularly sensitive given the region's strategic location between NATO members — Lithuania and Poland. Putin's threat was apparently directed at Western countries that support Ukraine with arms and intelligence supplies.

Fighting continues in Ukraine primarily along the Donetsk and Zaporizhzhia fronts, where Russian forces are attempting to advance relentlessly. The Ukrainian armed forces have reported several counterattacks against the enemy, but the situation at the front remains tense.