U.S. Deploying Nuclear Submarines in Response to Russia's ‘Provocative’ Remarks: Trump

Updated: August 2, 2025 Washington D.C., REUTERS — In a bold move following growing tensions with Russia, President Donald Trump announced on Friday that he had ordered the deployment of two nuclear-powered submarines in response to provocative comments from Dmitry Medvedev, the former Russian president and current deputy chairman of Russia’s Security Council. Trump’s Response to Medvedev’s Remarks President Trump took to social media to express his concerns about Medvedev’s recent statements, calling them highly provocative and inflammatory. "Based on the highly provocative statements of Former President Dmitry Medvedev... I have ordered two Nuclear Submarines to be positioned in the appropriate regions," Trump said in his post. "Words are very important, and can often lead to unintended consequences. I hope this will not be one of those instances." While Trump did not elaborate on whether the submarines are nuclear-powered or nuclear-armed, his response indicates heightened military readiness amid escalating rhetoric between Washington and Moscow. The United States rarely comments on the location or deployment of its nuclear submarines due to their sensitive mission in nuclear deterrence. The U.S. Navy and Pentagon have yet to provide further details or comment on the matter. Rising Tensions Between U.S. and Russia The recent exchange of sharp words between Trump and Medvedev follows a series of escalating tensions between the U.S. and Russia over the ongoing war in Ukraine. On Tuesday, President Trump issued an ultimatum to Russia, demanding that Moscow agree to a ceasefire within 10 days or face severe economic repercussions, including tariffs on Russian goods and its oil buyers. In response, Medvedev warned Trump to be cautious, stating that Russia still possesses a robust nuclear deterrent, including Soviet-era nuclear strike capabilities. Trump swiftly responded, urging Medvedev to "watch his words," adding to the growing tension. Medvedev’s Role as a Hardline Voice Dmitry Medvedev has become one of Russia’s most outspoken anti-Western figures since the invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Known for his aggressive rhetoric, Medvedev has frequently threatened nuclear escalation, particularly in response to Western sanctions and military support for Ukraine. His comments are viewed by some analysts as a reflection of hardline factions within the Kremlin, although others see them as mere provocations. Putin’s Stance and the Future of Peace Talks While President Putin has expressed a desire for continued peace talks with Ukraine, he has also made it clear that the momentum of the war is in Russia’s favor. The Russian president made no mention of Trump’s ceasefire deadline, indicating that Moscow is unlikely to meet the August 8 deadline set by the U.S. U.S. Military Preparedness The United States is one of only six countries in the world that operates nuclear-powered submarines, alongside Russia, the U.K., China, France, and India. The U.S. Navy currently operates a formidable fleet of 71 submarines, including 14 ballistic-missile submarines, 53 fast attack submarines, and four guided-missile submarines. President Trump has previously criticized Russia’s actions in Ukraine, describing them as "disgusting" and accusing Putin of not living up to his promises. Despite this, Trump has been vocal about his goal to end the Ukraine war quickly, although diplomatic efforts have so far yielded little progress. What’s Next? As the geopolitical standoff between the U.S. and Russia intensifies, the world watches closely to see whether the current rhetoric will evolve into further military escalation. With nuclear weapons at the heart of the dispute, the potential for unintended consequences remains high. For now, President Trump’s decision to deploy nuclear submarines serves as a stark reminder of the fragile state of international relations in the 21st century and the dangers of military brinkmanship.

NEWS