Trump says two U.S. nuclear submarines moved near Russia over Medvedev threats

Donald Trump has ordered two U.S. nuclear submarines to be deployed near Russia, citing a need to counter what he called provocative threats from Kremlin official Dmitry Medvedev.

The U.S. president said the decision was prompted by comments made by Medvedev, who serves as deputy chairman of Russia’s Security Council. Describing the remarks as “foolish and inflammatory,” Trump said on social media that the submarines were moved “just in case these statements are more than just that.”

"Words are very important, and can often lead to unintended consequences. I hope this will not be one of those instances," he added.

The move follows an escalation in rhetoric between the two leaders. Earlier this week, Trump issued a public deadline for Russia to agree to a ceasefire in Ukraine within ten days or face sweeping tariffs—also targeting countries that continue to buy Russian oil.

Medvedev responded by accusing Trump of playing a “game of ultimatums” and reminded him of Russia’s nuclear capabilities. Once seen as a more moderate voice in the Kremlin, Medvedev has adopted a hawkish tone since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

Moscow has rejected Trump’s ceasefire ultimatum and continues to insist on its own terms for ending the conflict.

Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022 and has since faced widespread international sanctions and condemnation. Medvedev, who once presented a more moderate image during his presidency from 2008 to 2012, has become one of the Kremlin’s most vocally anti-Western figures.

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