One of America’s oldest enemies may be a paper tiger. They’re worn out and everyone can see it.
Now Russia ran away with its tail tucked after President Trump made a shocking threat.
Kremlin Seeks to Ease Tensions Over Nuclear Rhetoric
On Monday, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov attempted to de-escalate tensions sparked by former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev’s provocative statements, which prompted President Donald Trump to reposition two U.S. nuclear submarines closer to Russia.
Peskov, speaking to reporters via TASS, emphasized Russia’s cautious stance on nuclear issues, stating, “We approach any statements related to nuclear issues with great caution. Russia takes the issue of nuclear non-proliferation very seriously, and we believe that everyone should be extremely careful when it comes to nuclear rhetoric.”
He reiterated President Vladimir Putin’s responsible position, aiming to downplay the U.S. submarine deployment as part of routine operations, noting, “US submarines are already on combat duty. This is an ongoing process.”
Medvedev’s Remarks and Trump’s Response
The escalation began when Medvedev, now deputy chairman of Russia’s Security Council, taunted Trump on X about potential U.S. sanctions over Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, warning that “each new ultimatum is a threat and a step towards war.”
Medvedev’s earlier May comments had also raised concerns, referencing World War III in response to Trump’s criticisms of Putin.
On Friday, Trump announced on Truth Social, “I have ordered two Nuclear Submarines to be positioned in the appropriate regions, just in case these foolish and inflammatory statements are more than just that.”
Later that day, speaking to the New York Post before heading to Bedminster, New Jersey, Trump clarified the move was a direct response to Medvedev’s nuclear rhetoric, stating, “When you talk about nuclear, you have to be prepared. And we’re totally prepared.”
Trump did not specify whether the submarines were nuclear-powered or nuclear-armed or their exact locations.
Diplomatic Efforts Amid Ongoing Ukraine Conflict
The submarine deployment coincides with U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff’s planned visit to Russia on Wednesday, August 6, to push for a Ukraine ceasefire before Trump’s Friday deadline for secondary sanctions on Russia’s trading partners.
Peskov’s remarks reflect an effort to maintain diplomatic channels amid heightened tensions, with Russia emphasizing restraint in nuclear discussions.
The U.S. move follows Trump’s strategy to pressure Russia to end its invasion of Ukraine, which began in February 2022, through sanctions and diplomatic initiatives.
The Kremlin’s response suggests a desire to avoid further escalation while navigating ongoing military and economic challenges, as both nations brace for critical talks that could shape the trajectory of the Ukraine conflict.
