Russia threatens Denmark with nuclear weapons

London, March 22

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Russia has threatened to target Denmark’s warships with nuclear weapons if the Scandinavian nation becomes a member of Nato’s missile defence shield.

In comments which have been met with anger in Copenhagen, the Russian ambassador to Denmark said a move towards better integration with the western alliance would make it a “threat to Russia”, and that it would have to accept the consequences.

Mikhail Vanin told Jyllands-Posten newspaper: “I do not think that the Danes fully understand the consequences if Denmark joins the US-led missile defence shield. If that happens, Danish warships become targets for Russian nuclear missiles.”

According to a translation by Copenhagen Post, Vanin added that while such a move would be “Denmark’s decision”, “relations with Russia will be damaged” and it would “lose both money and security”.

The threat comes amid a backdrop of heightened tension across eastern Europe, as last night David Cameron and other EU leaders agreed to extend sanctions against Russia until the terms of a Ukraine ceasefire agreement are met.

And Martin Lidegaard, the Danish foreign minister, denounced the Russian diplomat’s use of threats.

“This is obviously unacceptable,” he said. “Russia knows very well that Nato’s missile defence system is defensive. We disagree with Russia on many important things, but it is important that the tone between us remains as positive as possible.” Agencies