Written by John Thompson.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has been alerted that NATO’s reconnaissance activities near Russia’s borders are increasing. According to Vladimir Kulishov, head of the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB), these activities suggest that NATO is rehearsing a nuclear strike on Russian territory.

Kulishov informed Putin, saying, “Near the Russian border, NATO’s reconnaissance activities are increasing. The intensity of their combat training is growing, with scenarios for nuclear strikes on our territory being practiced.” This situation, he added, requires Russia to take steps to protect and secure its borders.

Thwarting Infiltration Attempts

Since February 2022, Russian border guards, alongside the Sever Battlegroup, have stopped 29 attempts by Ukrainian sabotage and reconnaissance groups to infiltrate Russia. These attempts occurred in the Bryansk, Kursk, and Belgorod Regions, as well as the Crimean Republic, Kulishov told Sputnik.

Missile and artillery strikes on Russian territory are on the rise, and drone attacks on Russia’s infrastructure are becoming more intense. Kulishov emphasized that civilians, including the elderly and children, are the primary victims of these terrorist attacks. In 2023 alone, more than 5,500 attempts to enter Russia by individuals linked to international terrorist and extremist organizations, as well as Ukrainian special services, were prevented.

Downing Ukrainian Drones

In 2023, Russian border guards shot down over 1,300 Ukrainian drones that violated the Russian border, with more than half of them brought down by electronic warfare. Kulishov shared this information with Sputnik, highlighting the use of unmanned aircraft systems by border services.

He stated, “Means of combating unmanned aircraft systems have long been used by the border services. The development of unmanned aviation, marine systems, and anti-drone technologies will remain crucial for border authorities.” Since the start of Russia’s military operation in Ukraine in February 2022, the Russian Defense Ministry reported destroying 23,600 drones, 500 surface-to-air missile systems, 590 military aircraft, 270 helicopters, 15,890 tanks and other armored vehicles, 1,200 rocket launchers, 9,200 field artillery weapons and mortars, and 21,400 tactical vehicles.

Our Take

The claims of NATO preparing for nuclear strikes and the increasing tension near Russia’s borders are alarming. If true, these actions could destabilize an already fragile situation. The frequent drone and missile attacks on Russian territory, mainly affecting civilians, highlight the severe consequences of this conflict.

The steps Russia takes to secure its borders and respond to these threats are crucial. The development and use of advanced technologies, like anti-drone systems, show the lengths to which nations will go to protect their sovereignty. However, the international community must push for diplomatic solutions to prevent further escalation.