President Donald Trump on Friday made waves on his social media platform Truth Social, issuing a stern warning to former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev. In a post that has since drawn sharp global reactions, Trump revealed that the United States is ready to deploy nuclear submarines to “appropriate regions,” citing what he called “foolish and inflammatory” remarks by Medvedev.
“Words are very important and can often lead to unintended consequences,” Trump wrote. “I hope this will not be one of those instances.”
His post came as a direct response to a fiery comment by Medvedev, who had taken to X (formerly Twitter) to accuse Trump of issuing “ultimatums” to Russia—warning such behaviour could trigger a larger conflict.
Medvedev Fires First Shot, Trump Shoots Back
Medvedev’s post earlier this week had taken a provocative turn. Without naming Trump directly at first, he mocked the former (and potentially future) US President’s diplomatic overtures to end the Russia–Ukraine conflict.
“Russia is not Israel or even Iran,” Medvedev wrote. “Each new ultimatum will be seen as a threat and a step towards war—not with Ukraine, but with his own country. Don’t go down the Sleepy Joe road!”
Trump, unsurprisingly, did not let that slide. In a separate Truth Social post, he hit back hard:
“Tell Medvedev—the failed former President of Russia, who thinks he’s still President—to watch his words. He’s entering very dangerous territory.”
Ceasefire Push Undermined?
Trump’s recent diplomatic campaign aimed at brokering a ceasefire in the Russia–Ukraine war had stirred hope in some quarters. Just weeks ago, he’d issued a 50-day deadline for both countries to come to the negotiating table—warning of increased sanctions and potential consequences for non-compliance.
But experts say this latest flare-up could derail those efforts.
“Medvedev’s response and Trump’s reaction have essentially put the brakes on any goodwill built over the last month,” said a retired US diplomat who requested anonymity. “Both sides are now speaking the language of brinkmanship.”
India’s MEA Steps Up Surveillance
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is said to be keeping a close watch on the development. While New Delhi has officially remained silent, senior officials have privately expressed concern over the potential for miscalculation.
“Any talk of nuclear assets, even in hypothetical terms, raises red flags for South Block,” said a senior MEA official. “We are not involved directly, but the geopolitical ripples will touch everyone.”
India, which has maintained a balanced stance between Russia and the West, may soon find itself under pressure to weigh in, especially if the situation escalates further.
Diplomacy or Dangerous Posturing?
While both Trump and Medvedev are known for their strong rhetoric, this episode has added a layer of unpredictability to already tense global dynamics. Analysts warn that such verbal skirmishes, when played out on public platforms, can quickly spiral into diplomatic headaches.
“Nuclear posturing, whether symbolic or literal, is never taken lightly,” said Arvind Srivastava, a Delhi-based international relations scholar. “And the worst-case scenario is that this becomes the new normal in global diplomacy.”
