Moscow: The Kremlin has called for caution and restraint in nuclear discourse following a high-profile announcement by U.S. President Donald Trump that he had ordered the deployment of two nuclear submarines in response to remarks by former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev.
Trump’s statement, issued late last week, was a direct reaction to recent comments made by Medvedev, now serving as deputy chairman of Russia’s Security Council. Medvedev had suggested that Russia would retain the capability for catastrophic retaliation in the event of a loss of leadership, implying the existence of a so-called “doomsday device.” In response, Trump warned of serious consequences and demanded a ceasefire in Ukraine by August 8, threatening secondary sanctions against nations supporting Russia’s war effort, including India and China.
On Monday, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov addressed the situation, urging all parties to be careful when making statements about nuclear weapons. He emphasized that the use of nuclear rhetoric can lead to increased global tension and instability. Peskov affirmed Russia’s continued commitment to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty and insisted that provocative language must be avoided by all sides.
He also downplayed the significance of Trump’s submarine order, stating that American nuclear submarines routinely remain on alert in various global regions. Peskov noted that he could not confirm whether President Vladimir Putin had spoken with Medvedev about his remarks, but reaffirmed that the Kremlin’s official foreign policy positions are articulated only by the Russian president.
Meanwhile, in a display of strategic cooperation, Russian and Chinese naval forces began joint military drills in the Sea of Japan. These exercises, which include artillery, anti-submarine warfare, and air defense operations, were reportedly planned in advance but come at a time of heightened military and diplomatic tension between Moscow and Washington.
In the United States, diplomatic efforts are being advanced by Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, who is expected to arrive in Moscow midweek. Witkoff’s visit is aimed at negotiating a potential ceasefire in Ukraine ahead of Trump’s August 8 deadline. His appointment, however, has attracted scrutiny due to past statements expressing admiration for Putin, raising questions about the direction and tone of U.S. diplomatic engagement.
Amid these developments, Russian officials have indicated that any meeting between Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky would require substantial preparatory talks and agreement on key points, including the recognition of Russian claims over annexed territories and a commitment from Ukraine to abandon NATO aspirations.
As tensions rise, global leaders and observers are closely monitoring the situation for signs of escalation or potential breakthroughs. The coming days may prove critical in shaping the trajectory of the war in Ukraine and the broader geopolitical landscape.