WASHINGTON (AP) - President Donald Trump announced on Friday that he is ordering the repositioning of two U.S. nuclear submarines in response to the "highly provocative statements" made by Russia's former president, Dmitry Medvedev. Medvedev's recent remarks online raised concerns about the potential for war, prompting Trump's decision to take further precautions.
In a post on his social media platform, Trump stated that he had ordered the submarines to be positioned in "the appropriate regions," expressing that these "foolish and inflammatory statements" should be taken seriously. He emphasized the significance of words and their ability to lead to unintended consequences, hoping that this situation would not escalate further.
The exact implications of Trump's order on the U.S. nuclear submarines remain unclear, as these vessels are routinely on patrol in various hotspots across the globe. However, the move coincides with a crucial period in the Trump administration's diplomatic relations with Moscow, as tensions rise over the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Following the positioning announcement, Trump conveyed his alarm regarding Medvedev's remarks during an interview with Newsmax, referring to him as having a "fresh mouth." He revealed that special envoy Steve Witkoff is being dispatched to Russia to urge Moscow towards a ceasefire in its war with Ukraine, coupled with threats of new economic sanctions if no progress occurs. Furthermore, Trump shortened his deadline for action from 50 days to merely 10 days, a timeline set to conclude next week.
Trump's remarks about Medvedev began on Thursday morning when he labeled him a "failed former President of Russia" and cautioned him to "watch his words." Medvedev reacted by asserting that "Russia is right on everything and will continue to go its own way." This exchange initiated earlier in the week when Medvedev commented on Trump's ultimatum approach, warning that each new deadline escalates tensions, not only with Russia and Ukraine but also within Trump's own country.
As he departed the White House for a weekend at his estate in New Jersey, Trump did not provide specific details regarding where the submarines would be repositioned. He reiterated that a threat had been made and expressed the necessity of caution, emphasizing the safety of U.S. citizens as his primary concern. "When you talk about nuclear, we have to be prepared," he remarked, adding that the submarines would be moved "closer to Russia."
Medvedev, who served as Russia's president from 2008 to 2012 while Vladimir Putin was prohibited from seeking a third consecutive term, currently holds the position of deputy chairman of Russia's National Security Council. Known for his provocative comments since the onset of the war in 2022, Medvedev's rhetoric marks a stark contrast from his previously perceived liberal and progressive stance during his presidency.
He has made a habit of issuing nuclear threats and criticizing Western leaders through social media. Analysts suggest that his statements may be an attempt to gain favor with Putin and the Russian military's hawkish elements. Prior to his exchanges with Trump, Medvedev had called out Trump's plans to supply Ukraine with additional military support, showcasing a pattern of inflammatory rhetoric aimed at asserting Russia's position internationally.
