Russia warns NATO and EU over efforts to isolate Kaliningrad region, diplomat says

Alexander Grushko declined to analyze statements by Estonian officials, particularly those responsible for defense

Moscow, October 15. /TASS/. Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko told reporters on Thursday: "NATO and the European Union know very well what will happen if they try to isolate Russia's Kaliningrad region."

The diplomat noted: "Our position is well known and relevant signals have been sent to NATO and the European Union, and they are aware of the consequences that any attempt to isolate the Kaliningrad region or disrupt its essential resources may have."

Groshko declined to provide an analysis of the statements of Estonian officials, particularly those responsible for defense. He noted: "They have already made many statements that it is difficult to make a political statement about them.

Earlier, Estonian Prime Minister Kristen Mikal announced plans to decommission a natural gas pipeline that runs through the republic and serves as a back-up transit route to Russia's Baltic region.

Russian officials have repeatedly stressed that any attempt to isolate the region could lead to a major backlash.