A fiery tweet from former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, which fiercely criticized Donald Trump’s sanction threats over Ukraine as “a step towards war” and hinted at nuclear capabilities, has ignited a significant response from the U.S. President. Trump has ordered the deployment of nuclear-capable submarines to “appropriate regions.”
In a post on Truth Social, Trump cited Medvedev’s “highly provocative statements,” acknowledging his role as deputy chairman of Russia’s security council. He stressed the gravity of language, asserting that “Words are very important, and can often lead to unintended consequences,” hoping to avert a further escalation.
Asked for the rationale behind the submarine movement, Trump stated, “A threat was made by a former president of Russia and we’re going to protect our people.” This move follows Medvedev’s earlier online attack, which derided Trump’s shortened peace timeline for Ukraine and warned against underestimating Russia’s resolve.
While some security analysts classify Trump’s action as a rhetorical escalation, rather than a completely new military stance, given the constant readiness and global presence of U.S. nuclear submarines, it undoubtedly signals heightened international friction. Trump’s public frustration with Vladimir Putin’s perceived lack of progress on a Ukraine ceasefire, a promise he had made, remains a significant underlying factor. Putin, despite recent destruction in Ukraine, continues to articulate a desire for “lasting and stable peace” but has offered no tangible concessions.
