Washington, D.C. (KAAB TV) – In a move that has escalated already simmering geopolitical tensions, former U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Friday that he had ordered the deployment of two U.S. nuclear-powered warships in response to provocative remarks by Dmitry Medvedev, the former President of Russia and current Deputy Chairman of the Russian Security Council.
The decision, announced via Trump’s social media platform, followed a sharp verbal confrontation between the former U.S. president and Medvedev. Trump claimed that Medvedev’s recent remarks warranted a show of force, citing the need to respond decisively to what he described as “reckless and inflammatory rhetoric.”
“Based on the inflammatory statements of former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev—statements that suggest a dangerous lack of judgment and restraint—I have ordered the immediate deployment of two nuclear warships to strategic positions in proximity to Russian territorial waters,” Trump posted online. “We must be prepared in case these foolish and passionate declarations reflect real intent.”
Medvedev, who served as Russia’s president from 2008 to 2012 and remains a close ally of President Vladimir Putin, had earlier criticized Trump’s proposal to impose tariffs on countries importing Russian oil—specifically naming India. Medvedev warned that such actions could constitute what he described as an “end game,” potentially leading to a direct military confrontation between the U.S. and Russia.
“These threats to penalize nations for purchasing our energy resources cross a dangerous red line,” Medvedev reportedly said in a statement. “It is the kind of economic aggression that, if pursued further, could spiral into war.”
Trump’s show of military readiness comes as Russia intensifies its ongoing attacks on Ukraine. Over the past week, Russian forces have ramped up their assault on civilian targets, including a devastating missile and drone strike on the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv on Thursday. The attack killed 31 people and wounded more than 150, prompting Ukrainian authorities to declare Friday a national day of mourning.
In his statement, Trump also called on Russian President Vladimir Putin to agree to an immediate ceasefire, warning that failure to do so would trigger severe economic sanctions from the United States and its allies.
“The world is watching. If Putin does not de-escalate this madness, there will be consequences that Russia cannot afford,” Trump stated.
While the White House has not yet commented on Trump’s declarations, political analysts warn that rhetoric from both sides is dangerously heightening the risk of miscalculation in an already volatile international landscape.
As diplomatic tensions continue to mount, many international observers are urging restraint from both Washington and Moscow, calling for dialogue over displays of force.