US President Donald Trump has ordered the deployment of two nuclear submarines to "appropriate regions" in response to comments made by former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev. This decision follows Medvedev's warning about Russia's nuclear capabilities, which he described as rooted in Soviet-era doctrine. Trump characterised Medvedev's remarks as "foolish and inflammatory" and stated that the submarines would serve as a precautionary measure.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump wrote, "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. Words are very important, and can often lead to unintended consequences, I hope this will not be one of those instances."
The US president did not specify the exact locations for the submarines, adhering to military protocol. Medvedev, who is now the deputy chairman of Russia's Security Council, had previously threatened the US in response to Trump's ultimatum for Russia to agree to a ceasefire in Ukraine or face severe sanctions.
Trump's ultimatum included a ten-day deadline for compliance, which Medvedev dismissed as a "game of ultimatums." He warned Trump to remember Moscow's nuclear capabilities, escalating the rhetoric between the two leaders. In a later statement, Trump cautioned Medvedev to "watch his words," indicating the seriousness of the situation.
The Kremlin has not publicly responded to Trump's submarine deployment order. However, following Trump's statements, Moscow's stock market experienced a significant decline. The ongoing exchange of threats and ultimatums has raised concerns about the potential for further escalation in the already tense relationship between the US and Russia.
In a separate context, concerns have also been raised regarding a Russian nuclear facility located near the epicentre of a recent 8.8-magnitude earthquake in Kamchatka. While Russian officials have assured that the situation is under control, experts have expressed scepticism about the reliability of such claims.
As tensions continue to mount, the international community is closely monitoring the developments between the two nuclear powers.