President Donald Trump has ordered a direct retaliation, sending nuclear-capable submarines to “appropriate regions” in response to a clear provocation from former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev. Medvedev’s menacing tweet had framed Trump’s proposed sanctions against Russia regarding Ukraine as “a threat and a step towards war,” strongly implying a nuclear dimension to the escalating tensions.
In a statement on Truth Social, Trump underscored the gravity of Medvedev’s remarks, particularly his current influential position within Russia’s security council. The President warned of the potential for “unintended consequences” arising from inflammatory language, hoping to de-escalate the situation and prevent a wider conflict.
Explaining his decision to reporters, Trump stated, “A threat was made by a former president of Russia and we’re going to protect our people.” This action follows Medvedev’s earlier online tirade, which included deriding Trump’s accelerated ultimatum for a Ukraine peace agreement, asserting Russia’s resilience against such pressures.
Though some analysts characterize Trump’s action as a symbolic display of force, noting the constant readiness of U.S. nuclear submarines, the public confrontation underscores growing friction between the two nuclear powers. Trump’s persistent frustration with Putin over the stalled Ukraine ceasefire, a key campaign promise, remains a significant factor. Meanwhile, Putin has reiterated his desire for “lasting and stable peace” in Ukraine, yet without offering any concrete compromises, even as the conflict rages.