WASHINGTON / AUGUST 1, 2025 — U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Friday that he has ordered the deployment of two nuclear-armed submarines to regions near Russia, warning that recent statements by Russia’s Dmitry Medvedev would not go unanswered .
Speaking on Truth Social, Trump described Medvedev’s comments as “highly provocative” and hinted they could escalate into something more dangerous:
“Words are very important, and can often lead to unintended consequences…just in case these foolish and inflammatory statements are more than just that.”
Direct response to Medvedev’s ultimatum: Trump’s order came after Medvedev, now Deputy Chairman of Russia’s Security Council, challenged Washington with veiled threats and warned that U.S. ultimatums could amount to calls for war .
Continued escalation in U.S.-Russia tensions: The submarine deployment reinforces a growing pattern of military signaling between the two nations, especially over the war in Ukraine and nuclear deterrence policies .
Read Top Stories
Emphasis on strategic deterrence: Trump framed the move as a precautionary posture rather than aggression, stressing that strategic restraint depends heavily on how seriously rhetoric is taken .
In recent weeks, Trump and Medvedev traded harsh messages: Trump gave Russia ten days to agree to a ceasefire in Ukraine or face new sanctions, while Medvedev responded by warning of nuclear strike capabilities and accusing Trump of playing “a game of ultimatums” .
Trump has repeatedly highlighted the U.S. nuclear submarine fleet as technologically advanced and central to deterrence capabilities. He has promoted the W76-2 low-yield warhead and other assets to counter Russia’s evolving threats .