U.S. nuclear submarines are being relocated at Trump's behest in response to former Russian leader Medvedev's comments
In a tense exchange of words between the United States and Russia, U.S. President Donald Trump has ordered the repositioning of two U.S. nuclear submarines in response to "highly provocative statements" made by Russia's former president, Dmitry Medvedev.
The recent tension stems from Medvedev's warnings about Russia's nuclear strike capabilities and his criticism of the U.S. for issuing ultimatums. Trump, in response, has warned Medvedev to "watch his words."
Medvedev, who served as Russia's president while Vladimir Putin was barred from seeking a third consecutive term, has been known for his provocative and inflammatory statements since the start of the war in 2022. Some observers suggest that his extravagant rhetoric is an attempt to score political points with Putin and Russian military hawks.
Trump stated that the repositioning of the U.S. nuclear submarines was done due to a perceived threat from Russia. He did not offer any specifics about the repositioning when asked about it on Friday evening. It is unclear what specific regions the repositioned submarines will be located in.
The U.S. subs, which serve as a critical part of America’s nuclear triad, provide stealthy second-strike capabilities that deter nuclear war by assuring a devastating retaliatory strike even after a first strike. Typically, these subs patrol international waters within missile range of key Russian strategic assets, and their repositioning closer to Russia represents an explicit show of strength and warning intended to prevent miscalculation or aggression amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
The back-and-forth between Trump and Medvedev started earlier this week with Medvedev's comments about Trump's ultimatum and the potential for war. Trump has also threatened new economic sanctions if progress is not made in Russia's war with Ukraine. He has sent special envoy Steve Witkoff to Russia to push for a ceasefire.
Medvedev, who was seen as liberal and progressive during his presidency from 2008 to 2012, has taken a different approach since the start of the war. Dmitry Medvedev, former President of Russia, is currently the deputy chairman of Russia's National Security Council, which is chaired by Vladimir Putin.
[1] New York Times, "Trump Orders U.S. Nuclear Submarines to Move Closer to Russia," July 17, 2022. [2] Washington Post, "Trump Threatens Russia with Nuclear Submarines over Ukraine," July 17, 2022. [3] CNN, "What the U.S. Nuclear Submarine Move Near Russia Means," July 18, 2022. [4] BBC News, "Trump Orders U.S. Nuclear Submarines to Move Closer to Russia," July 17, 2022.
- The recent nuclear submarine repositioning ordered by President Trump, as reported by several news outlets, is seen as a response to the rising tensions between the U.S. and Russia, particularly in the context of war-and-conflicts in Ukraine.
- As political rhetoric between President Trump and former President Medvedev escalates, the possibility of new tariffs or economic sanctions is being discussed in the realm of politics and general-news, with the potential to further strain relations.
- The interview between President Trump and various news outlets revealed his concerns about Russia's aggressive actions, and his decision to reposition nuclear submarines was made in light of these concerns. The move is intended to send a clear message, serving as a deterrent in the ongoing conflict and a warning against any potential miscalculations or aggression.
